Classic to Modern English Literature

"The Country Wife" also known as "The Intriguing Lady" was written by William Wycherley which was first printed in 1675. It centers on Mr. Horner, a notorious womanizer who feigns impotence to gain access to married women. The complications arise when he falls for Margery Pinchwife, a young woman confined by her jealous husband. The play explores themes of love, sex, marriage, social class, and hypocrisy. The play exposes the discrepancy between public personas and private actions, particularly regarding sexual behavior. The play reflects the era's aristocratic and anti-Puritan sentiments, with its focus on sexual freedom and social satire. Restoration comedy is a genre of English drama characterized by witty dialogue, social satire, and a focus on sexual intrigue. Critics have lauded its portrayal of the hypocrisy and double standards of Restoration society, particularly regarding gender and sexual behaviour. The Country Wife employs, "Irony, Epigram, Doub

William Wycherley (baptized April 8, 1641 – January 1, 1716) was a notable English playwright during the Restoration period, renowned for his works "The Country Wife" and "The Plain Dealer." Early Life  Wycherley was born at Clive near Shrewsbury in Shropshire, in a residence known as Clive Hall. However, there are claims, notably by Lionel Cust, that his birthplace might have been Trench Farm near Wem, which was also the birthplace of John Ireland, a writer who was later adopted by Wycherley's widow after Ireland’s parents died. Wycherley was baptized on April 8, 1641, in Whitchurch, Hampshire. His parents were Daniel Wycherley (1617–1697) and Bethia Shrimpton, daughter of William Shrimpton. The family had a modest estate yielding about £600 annually, and his father served the Marquess of Winchester. Much of Wycherley's childhood was spent at Trench Farm, one of his family's properties in Shropshire. He likely also spent his early years at Whitchurch F