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Sentimental comedies emerged in England after the death of Charles II and, with him, the end of his raucous and risque Restoration court. New monarchs William III and Mary II now sat on the English throne and they promoted a more reserved and morally accountable society. English drama reflected this change in mood and this guide explores the typical tone and sentiment of the new comedies produced during this period.

Terminology

• Charles II: King of England from 1630-1685.
• Poet Laureate: an honorary position appointed by the monarch of the United Kingdom. There is an expectation that the poet will write verse for significant national occasions.
• Restoration comedy: typically bawdy and risque comedies favored by Charles II during his reign
• William III and Mary II: joint monarchs of England from 1689 to 1702 (Mary died in 1694).

Key Dates & Events

• 1671 - 1751 - Lifetime of Colley Cibber.
• 1685 - King Charles II dies, leaving no heir.
• 1689 - William III and Mary II are crowned as joint monarchs of England, Scotland, and Ireland.
• 1696 - Colley Cibber's most popular play, Love's Last Shift; or, The Fool in Fashion, is a huge success.
• 1698 - Publication of Jeremy Collier’s Short View of the Immorality and Profaneness of the English Stage.
• 1707 - Death of George Farquhar.
• 1740 - Colley Cibber published his anecdotal and colorful autobiography, An Apology for the Life of Colley Cibber, Comedian.