
Length3h 45m
About this audiobook
William Congreve's "The Old Bachelor" is a seminal work of Restoration comedy that deftly navigates the complexities of love, deception, and societal norms. Written in 1693, the play is characterized by its witty dialogue, clever plot twists, and an intricate web of romantic entanglements among its characters. Congreve's use of rhymed couplets and sharp repartee reflects the era's theatrical style while also allowing for critical insights into the behaviors and expectations of the 17th-century English aristocracy. The work provides a vivid examination of the bachelor's plight amidst the pressures of social propriety, encapsulating the tensions between personal desire and societal expectation. Congreve, born in 1670, was a foundational figure in English drama, often lauded for his sharp wit and keen observations about human nature. His education at Oxford and exposure to the vibrant literary scene of the time significantly influenced his writing. "The Old Bachelor" emerged during a period when themes of gender and relationships were increasingly scrutinized, reflecting both the author's personal experiences and the broader social discourse surrounding marriage and courtship. For readers seeking a masterclass in character-driven narrative and comedic timing, "The Old Bachelor" offers a compelling blend of humor and insight. Congreve's exploration of romantic relationships remains relevant, making this play an enduring contribution to the canon of English literature that invites reflection and enjoyment alike.
Audiobook details
Rating★★★ 3.0 (53)
Includes Goodreads, LibraryThing
GenreLiterary Classics
Length3 hrs 45 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateSep 16, 2022
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1II.
26SCENE VII.
2III.
27SCENE VIII.
3IV.
28SCENE IX.
4V.
29SCENE I.
5VI.
30SCENE II.
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6VII.
31SCENE III.
7TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE CHARLES, LORD CLIFFORD OF LANESBOROUGH, ETC.
32SCENE IV.
8TO MR. CONGREVE.
33SCENE V.
9TO MR. CONGREVE.
34SCENE VI.
10TO MR. CONGREVE, ON HIS PLAY CALLED THE OLD BACHELOR.
35SCENE VII.
11PROLOGUE INTENDED FOR THE OLD BACHELOR. Written by the Lord Falkland.
36SCENE VIII.
12PROLOGUE. Spoken by Mrs. Bracegirdle.
37SCENE IX.
13MEN.
38SCENE X.
14WOMEN.
39SCENE XI.
15SCENE I.
40SCENE I.
16SCENE II.
41SCENE II.
17SCENE III.
42SCENE III.
18SCENE IV.
43SCENE IV.
19SCENE V.
44SCENE V.
20SCENE I.
45SCENE VI.
21SCENE II.
46SCENE VII.
22SCENE III.
47SCENE VIII.
23SCENE IV.
48SCENE IX.
24SCENE V.
49SCENE X.
25SCENE VI.
50SCENE XI.