The Beaux Stratagem. A Comedy. As it is Acted at the Queen's Theatre in the Hay-Market. By Her Majesty's Sworn Comedians. Written by Mr. Farquhar,

well the beaux stratagem apart from being difficult to spell is difficult to sift through, although when you manage to get past the confusion of the rapid scene changes, it is indeed a very rewarding drama. The names are an interesting starting point, they all have meaning and are essential to buildiong of character, such as 'archer' and 'aimwell' which are hunting for women and fortune. Brimmed full of shady characters and excititng senarios, this restoration drama is brilliant at mocking society and marriage, or loveless marriage. aimwell says in act 2 scene 2 'pshaw! no women can be a beauty without a fortune. Let me alone for i am a marksman.' and this loveless marriage is also personified in mrs Sullens unhappy marriage. theses are just a few specifics which is why i love the beaux stratagem. It may not be as blatantly witty or clever as any work belonging to oscar wilde, but it carries a certain charm and excitement which wildes plays do not. i would recomend this to experienced literature lovers, it takes a certain amount of close study of the text to really enjoy, but beginners this might be slightly heavy.

Easily one of the best to come out of the Restoration period. It ist funny, though not as full of comical devices as The Man of Mode or the Country Wife, but what I like especialy about it is the unusual way the play deals with the problem of marital disharmony. Farquhar treats his characters with a certain sympathy and thereby surpresses the malicious and insipid tone that is so typical for earlier Restoration plays. If you like reading plays written and performed in the 17th century, buy this one if you haven't allready.