In William Congreve's 'The Way of the World', what is the purpose of the famous 'Proviso Scene' between Mirabell and Millamant?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: To negotiate the terms and conditions of their future marriage
The Proviso Scene is a masterpiece of wit where Mirabell and Millamant set strict conditions to maintain their individuality and avoid the habits of typical married couples. It reflects the era's preoccupation with social contracts and personal freedom.
Keep practicing
More Restoration Drama questions
- The term 'Heroic Drama', popularized by John Dryden, is typically written in which verse form?
- Which character in William Wycherley's 'The Country Wife' pretends to be an eunuch to gain access to other men's wives?
- Which of the following plays is an example of John Dryden's 'All for Love', a Restoration retelling of a Shakespearean story?
- What are the 'Three Unities' of Neoclassical drama that many Restoration playwrights attempted to follow?
- George Villiers' play 'The Rehearsal' (1671) is a famous satire of which genre?
- In the context of the Restoration stage, what was a 'Breeches Role'?