Theoretical aspects of the study of English comedy of the 18th century

Abstract

The article deals with theoretical aspects of the study of English comedy of the 18th century. The definition of comedy as a dramatic genre of literature characterized by a specific structure, form and content, as well as individual features of creativity inherent in the playwrights of a certain era has been provided. It has been emphasized that the formation of the genre of English comedy of the 18th century is influenced by the trends that determine the specifics of this literary process. The dominant features of the genre have been characterized: ironic perception of the world, ridicule of traditional patterns, sober criticism, rational rethinking of existing ideals, etc. The methods of constructing a comedy text have been pointed out: the use of witty dialogues, everyday conflicts, comedy techniques (such as the game within a game), etc. The increase of allegory in the characters’ speech has been emphasized. Particular attention has been paid to intrigue as a defining compositional feature of a comedy. Humour and satire as special ways of artistic reflection of reality have been outlined. Attention has been focused on the main themes (spiritual devastation of the individual, loneliness, ethical problems, levelling of moral values, the power of money, the struggle for a place in society, etc.). It has been noted that English comedies of the 18th century are characterized by social typology. The influence of social relevance on the development of the genre has been mentioned. The attempts of the authors to depict real situations factually have been traced. It has been concluded that the comedy of the analyzed era organically combines everyday observations and deep psychological characteristics of the characters, which introduces new models of this genre in the 18th century literature.