The Matchmaker: A Farce in Four Acts
The Matchmaker: A Farce in Four Acts
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1954
Book Brief
120
Play • Fiction
New York City • 1880s
1954
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
In the 1880s, charismatic widow Dolly Gallagher Levi uses her skills as a matchmaker to meddle in the romantic affairs of those around her in Yonkers and New York City, including the wealthy yet irascible Horace Vandergelder, his niece Ermengarde, and his employees Cornelius and Barnaby, leading to a series of comedic mishaps and love connections.
Humorous
Playful
Romantic
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Thornton Wilder's The Matchmaker: A Farce in Four Acts receives praise for its humor, clever dialogue, and vibrant characters. Critics appreciate its exploration of human nature and social satire. Some reviews note that its period-specific humor may not resonate with all audiences, and the plot can feel predictable. Overall, it is celebrated for its wit and theatricality.
Who Should Read The Matchmaker: A Farce in Four Acts?
A reader who enjoys satirical comedies, such as Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest, would relish The Matchmaker: A Farce in Four Acts by Thornton Wilder. Fans of witty dialogue, social commentary, and lively, humorous scenarios will be captivated by Wilder’s clever storytelling and vibrant characters.
120
Play • Fiction
New York City • 1880s
1954
Adult
14+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!