50 pages • 1 hour read
The Conscious Lovers
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Book Brief
62
Play • Fiction
London • 18th Century
1722
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Conscious Lovers, a comedy in five acts by Irish playwright Richard Steele, follows an impoverished but courageous young woman named Indiana Danvers, who is accused of being a prostitute, yet ultimately ends up with the man she loves, the young Bevil, after overcoming numerous misunderstandings and social obstacles, and demonstrates the rewards of virtuous behavior and the importance of obeying one's parents.
Romantic
Humorous
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
126 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews of Richard Steele's play The Conscious Lovers reveal it as a refined comedy that emphasizes moral lessons over the typical farcical elements of its contemporaries. Critics appreciate its wit and elevation of character virtues; however, some find its sentimentality and slower pacing less engaging. Overall, it is valued for its innovative approach to comedy and social commentary.
Who Should Read The Conscious Lovers?
Readers who appreciate works like Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice or William Congreve's The Way of the World will enjoy Richard Steele's The Conscious Lovers. This play appeals to those who enjoy 18th-century comedy of manners, highlighting social mores and romantic entanglements with wit and elegance.
126 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Charles Myrtle
Charles Myrtle
A friend of Bevil Jr., portrayed as hot-tempered and jealous, especially regarding his desire to marry Lucinda amid competing suitors and familial expectations.
Indiana
Indiana
A woman of ambiguous social standing with a tragic past, who is the love interest of Bevil Jr. and remains patient despite the complexities of her relationship with him.
Lucinda
Lucinda
The daughter of Sealand, caught in a marital dilemma between pleasing her parents' ambitions and her own love for Myrtle, while remaining respectful of social norms.
Sir John Bevil
Sir John Bevil
The father of Bevil Jr., a former libertine turned responsible parent who is concerned about his son's future and moral character.
Tom
Tom
The servant of Bevil Jr., known for his comedic elements and embodiment of lower-class aspirations, often engaging in schemes with mixed success.
Phillis
Phillis
A lower-class woman, unlike Lucinda and Indiana, she openly pursues her passion for Tom, reflecting the play's exploration of class distinctions.
62
Play • Fiction
London • 18th Century
1722
Adult
18+ years
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