Drama and Prose of the 18th Century: Oliver Goldsmith
Oliver Goldsmith (1730–1774) was one of the most versatile and influential writers of the 18th century, contributing significantly to both drama and prose. His works reflect the social and literary trends of the time, blending satire, sentimentality, and moral commentary.
Goldsmith’s Prose
Goldsmith’s prose works are marked by humor, wit, and keen observations of human nature. His most famous novel, The Vicar of Wakefield (1766), is a sentimental yet satirical portrayal of rural life. The novel follows Dr. Primrose, a virtuous but naive clergyman, and his family as they endure various misfortunes. Despite its melodramatic elements, the novel critiques social injustices and highlights themes of resilience and morality.
In addition to fiction, Goldsmith wrote essays that appeared in periodicals such as The Public Ledger. His Citizen of the World (1762) is a collection of letters from a fictional Chinese traveler, Lien Chi Altangi, who humorously critiques British society. Through this outsider’s perspective, Goldsmith satirizes 18th-century customs, politics, and manners.
Goldsmith’s Drama
Goldsmith also made significant contributions to 18th-century drama, particularly with She Stoops to Conquer (1773), one of the most enduring comedies of the period. The play subverts the sentimental drama popular at the time by emphasizing farce and humor. The plot revolves around misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and the antics of characters like Tony Lumpkin. Through its lively comedy, the play critiques class distinctions and social pretensions.
His earlier play, The Good-Natur’d Man (1768), though less successful, also challenged the sentimental comedy trend by presenting flawed but humorous characters. Goldsmith believed that comedy should provoke laughter rather than moral instruction, aligning him with Restoration comedy traditions while adapting them to 18th-century tastes.
Legacy and Influence
Goldsmith’s works bridged the gap between the Augustan age and the emerging Romantic movement. His prose combined moral seriousness with satire, while his drama revived the spirit of robust comedy. Despite his often chaotic personal life, Goldsmith’s literary output remains a testament to his wit, humanity, and keen social insight.
In conclusion, Oliver Goldsmith’s contributions to 18th-century literature—through his sentimental yet critical prose and his revival of laughing comedy—cement his place as a key figure of the period. His works continue to be celebrated for their humor, warmth, and enduring relevance.