36 pages • 1 hour read
Love for Love
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Book Brief
130
Play • Fiction
London, England • 1690s
1695
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Love for Love follows Valentine, an indebted young man, who seeks to win the love of the wealthy Angelica while evading his creditors. His deceitful plot to avoid renouncing his inheritance to his father forms the main conflict. Various subplots include romantic pursuits and schemes by characters like Scandal, Tattle, and Mrs. Frail, all culminating in complex, intertwined resolutions.
Humorous
Romantic
Playful
Reviews & Readership
192 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Love for Love by William Congreve is largely appreciated for its clever wit, dynamic characters, and intricate plot. However, some readers find the dense language and period-specific humor challenging. Overall, it is celebrated as a hallmark of Restoration comedy, though its appeal may be limited to those with a taste for historical drama.
Who Should Read Love for Love?
A reader who enjoys witty dialogue, satirical social commentary, and Restoration comedies will find Love for Love by William Congreve appealing. Similar to fans of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest, this audience appreciates sharp humor and intricate character interactions.
192 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Angelica
Angelica
A financially independent woman with a great fortune, Angelica is known for her emotional reserve and strong-minded personality as she tests Valentine's sincerity.
Sir Sampson Legend
Sir Sampson Legend
The authoritarian father of Valentine and Ben, Sir Sampson is pragmatic and transactional in nature, often clashing with his sons over control and inheritance.
Tattle
Tattle
A gossip and braggart in Valentine's social circle, Tattle is obsessed with pleasure and seduction games, eventually leading to unexpected consequences.
Ben
Ben
Valentine's boisterous sailor brother, Ben's straightforward and honest demeanor sets him apart from the more sophisticated and cynical characters around him.
130
Play • Fiction
London, England • 1690s
1695
Adult
18+ years
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