The Second Mrs. Tanqueray
What is The Second Mrs. Tanqueray about?
The Second Mrs. Tanqueray (1893) is Arthur Wing Pinero's masterpiece of social drama. Aubrey Tanqueray, a respectable widower, marries Paula, a woman with a scandalous past, believing that love and social position can overcome society's prejudices. But when Paula's past collides with the present—specifically with her stepdaughter's fiancé—the result is devastating. The play was a theatrical sensation, with Mrs. Patrick Campbell originating the role of Paula. It challenged Victorian audiences to confront the hypocrisy of sexual double standards that condemned women while excusing identical behavior in men.
Main themes in The Second Mrs. Tanqueray
Victorian Social Drama
The theme of victorian social drama weaves through The Second Mrs. Tanqueray, adding depth to its narrative.
Sexual Double Standard
The theme of sexual double standard weaves through The Second Mrs. Tanqueray, adding depth to its narrative.
Women's Reputation
Women's Reputation emerges as a defining element in The Second Mrs. Tanqueray, shaping character development.
Marriage and Society
The theme of marriage and society weaves through The Second Mrs. Tanqueray, adding depth to its narrative.
Why The Second Mrs. Tanqueray is still relevant today
This play remains relevant for its examination of how society punishes women for sexual histories that men face no consequences for. It marks a turning point in English drama toward serious engagement with social issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Second Mrs. Tanqueray about?
A woman with a scandalous past marries a respectable man, but society's hypocrisy about women's sexuality leads to tragedy.
Why was The Second Mrs. Tanqueray controversial?
It challenged Victorian sexual double standards by showing how society destroyed women for behavior that was tolerated in men.
Where can I read The Second Mrs. Tanqueray?
You can read it free on TextStack.