The Rivals

The Rivals is a play written by Irish playwright Richard Brinsley Sheridan, first performed in 1775. Set in Bath, England, the play follows the romantic misadventures of several characters. The main plot revolves around the wealthy and impetuous Captain Jack Absolute, who is in love with the beautiful and headstrong Lydia Languish. However, Lydia is enamored with the idea of eloping with a poor man, and Jack must disguise himself as a penniless ensign to win her heart.Meanwhile, Lydia's aunt, Mrs. Malaprop, is attempting to arrange a marriage between Lydia and the foppish Sir Anthony Absolute, Jack's father. The play also features several other subplots, including the romantic rivalry between the dashing Faulkland and the charming Bob Acres, as well as the comical antics of the servant characters.The Rivals is known for its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and satirical commentary on the social mores of the time. It has been adapted for film, television, and stage numerous times, and remains a popular and influential work in the canon of English literature.Mrs. Mal. You thought, Miss!--I don't know any business you have to think at all--thought does not become a young woman; the point we would request of you is, that you will promise to forget this fellow--to illiterate him, I say, quite from your memory. (Note: all the webmaster's mis-typings on own message board have just been explained by genetics.)This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.