Epilogue Intended to have been Spoken for "She S

Name: Epilogue Intended to have been Spoken for "She Stoops to Conquer" 2
Author: Oliver Goldsmith

The epilogue serves as a commentary on the nature of theater and its audience, drawing parallels between the stage and the moon as realms where lost senses can be found. It suggests that both spaces attract individuals seeking to reclaim their wits, highlighting the absurdities of society. Various characters, including rakes, coquettes, and gamesters, are depicted as coming to the theater to escape their follies and regain a sense of self. The author critiques the audience's preference for high-society themes, noting that without the trappings of nobility, a work may struggle for acceptance. The piece emphasizes the importance of authenticity and the connection to everyday life, suggesting that true art reflects the human experience, regardless of social status. Ultimately, it underscores the idea that the theater is a mirror of society, where both the absurd and the genuine coexist, and where the author, despite his perceived shortcomings, seeks to engage with the audience on a fundamental level.

By Oliver Goldsmith · First published 1773 · Genre: Comedy, Drama, Satire · 542 words

First lines

THERE is a place, so Ariosto sings, A treasury for lost and missing things; Lost human wits have places assign'd them, And they, who lose their senses, there may find them. But where's this place, this storehouse of the age? The Moon, says he: -but _I_ affirm the Stage: At least in many things, I think, I see His lunar, and our mimic world agree. Both shine at night, for, but at Foote's alone, We scarce exhibit till the sun goes down. Both prone to change, no settled limits fix, And sure the folks of both are lunatics. But in this parallel my best pretence is, That mortals visit both to find their senses. To this strange spot, Rakes, Macaronies, Cits Come thronging to collect their scatter'd wits. The gay coquette, who ogles all the day, Comes here at night, and goes a prude away. Hither the affected city dame advancing, Who sighs for operas, and dotes on dancing, Taught by our art her ridicule to pause on, Quits the _Ballet_, and calls for _Nancy Dawson._

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Epilogue Intended to have been Spoken for "She Stoops to Conquer" 2 is listed on Textopian as a play by Oliver Goldsmith, dated 1773 CE.

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Work type: Play
Author: Oliver Goldsmith
Date: 1773 CE
Language: English
Genres: Comedy, Drama, Satire, Theater, Poetry
Length: 542 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Comedy — The work employs humor and satire to critique societal norms and behaviors, characteristic of comedic literature.
Drama — It is intended as a spoken epilogue, indicating its performance aspect and dramatic elements.
Satire — The text critiques social classes and human folly, aligning it with satirical literature.
Theater — The work is directly related to the theatrical tradition, reflecting the conventions of stage performance.