William Wycherley
Biography
William Wycherley (1641–1716) was an English dramatist, one of the leading playwrights of the Restoration period. Born in Shropshire, he studied in France and at Oxford before achieving theatrical success in the 1670s. His four plays—Love in a Wood, The Gentleman Dancing Master, The Country Wife, and The Plain Dealer—are among the most vigorous and satirical comedies of the Restoration stage. The Country Wife (1675) is his masterpiece, a brilliantly constructed comedy of sexual intrigue and social hypocrisy that remains a staple of the theatrical repertoire.
Common themes in William Wycherley's work
Restoration comedy
A recurring theme throughout William Wycherley's writing.
Sexual intrigue
A recurring theme throughout William Wycherley's writing.
Social hypocrisy
A recurring theme throughout William Wycherley's writing.
English drama
A recurring theme throughout William Wycherley's writing.
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Why William Wycherley is still read today
Wycherley’s comedies, especially The Country Wife, represent Restoration comedy at its most vigorous and entertaining. His exploration of sexual hypocrisy and social pretension remains theatrically alive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was William Wycherley?
William Wycherley was an English Restoration dramatist whose The Country Wife is one of the greatest English comedies. Read his plays free on TextStack.
What is Wycherley best known for?
The Country Wife (1675), a brilliantly satirical comedy of sexual intrigue and social hypocrisy.
How many plays did Wycherley write?
Four plays, all in the 1670s: Love in a Wood, The Gentleman Dancing Master, The Country Wife, and The Plain Dealer.
Where can I read Wycherley online?
TextStack offers The Country Wife free to read online.
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