Epilogue for Mr. Lee Lewes

Name: Epilogue for Mr. Lee Lewes
Author: Oliver Goldsmith

The work presents a satirical exploration of theatrical conventions and the absurdity of performance. The protagonist grapples with the tension between personal pride and the demands of the stage, expressing disdain for the superficiality of comedic roles. He reflects on the nature of identity and the conflict between reality and illusion, using the metaphor of Aesop's stag to illustrate the folly of vanity. The narrative critiques the theatrical world, highlighting the absurdity of its characters and plots, while the protagonist ultimately resolves to embrace a more authentic expression of self, rejecting the farcical elements of his role. The epilogue serves as a commentary on the nature of art, the struggle for authenticity, and the inevitable return to the self amidst the chaos of performance.

By Oliver Goldsmith · First published 1774 · Genre: Drama, Satire, Poetry · 643 words

First lines

HOLD! Prompter, hold! a word before your nonsense; I'd speak a word or two, to ease my conscience. My pride forbids it ever should be said, My heels eclips'd the honours of my head; That I found humour in a piebald vest, Or ever thought that jumping was a jest. (_Takes off his mask._)

What this Textopian page supports

Epilogue for Mr. Lee Lewes is listed on Textopian as a poem by Oliver Goldsmith, dated 1774 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Oliver Goldsmith
Date: 1774 CE
Language: English
Genres: Drama, Satire, Poetry, Comedy, Allegory
Length: 643 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Drama — The work is a theatrical piece that involves performance elements and character dialogue.
Satire — It critiques societal norms and theatrical conventions through humor and irony.
Poetry — The text employs poetic devices, rhythm, and structure typical of verse.
Comedy — The work contains humorous elements and absurd situations, characteristic of comedic literature.