The 'Double Entendre' is a common linguistic device in these plays. What does it entail?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A phrase with two meanings, one of which is typically risque
Double entendre was essential for bypassing censorship while signaling sexual subtexts to the audience. It allowed playwrights to maintain a surface level of 'manners' while engaging in 'gallant' or lewd humor.
Keep practicing
More Comedy of Manners questions
- In 'The Way of the World', which character serves as the villainous foil to Mirabell, attempting to steal Lady Wishfort's fortune?
- Which critic wrote 'A Short View of the Immorality and Profaneness of the English Stage' (1698), attacking the Comedy of Manners?
- George Farquhar’s 'The Beaux' Stratagem' (1707) is noted for shifting the Comedy of Manners in which direction?
- What is the typical social setting for a Comedy of Manners?
- In the context of this genre, what is a 'Rake'?
- Which character in 'The Way of the World' is an elderly woman obsessed with staying young and being courted?