A Jovial Crew: Or, The Merry Beggars: Analysis of Major Characters
"A Jovial Crew: Or, The Merry Beggars" is a comedic play that explores themes of social class, identity, and familial relationships through its diverse cast of characters. The central figure, Oldrents, is a benevolent country squire whose melancholy, stemming from a fortune-teller's ominous prediction regarding his daughters, sets the stage for a series of events that lead to their escapade with a band of beggars. Springlove, the squire's devoted steward, plays a pivotal role in aiding the daughters and ultimately reveals his true identity as Oldrents' illegitimate son, adding complexity to the family dynamics.
The squire's daughters, Rachel and Meriel, embark on an unexpected journey that challenges their romanticized views of begging. Amie, another key character, defies the constraints imposed by her guardian, Justice Clack, by fleeing with Martin, a cowardly nephew of a friend of Oldrents. Justice Clack's character adds an element of comedic authority, as his interactions with the beggars lead to crucial revelations that drive the plot toward its resolution. The story culminates in a joyful reunion and the union of various characters, including Springlove and Amie, highlighting the importance of love and authenticity. Overall, the play presents a vibrant tapestry of social commentary wrapped in humor and romance.
A Jovial Crew: Or, The Merry Beggars: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Richard Brome
First published: 1652
Genre: Play
Locale: England
Plot: Farce
Time: Seventeenth century
Oldrents, a kindly country squire. Troubled by a fortune-teller's prediction that his daughters will become beggars, he becomes so melancholy and unlike his usual self that he drives them to run away with a troop of wandering beggars. At their return, his happy nature is restored.
Springlove, Oldrents' good-hearted and reliable steward. His only fault is an annual restlessness that makes him turn over his accounts to an assistant and take to the open road. He aids the squire's daughters in their runaway plan and looks after their safety. He is finally revealed as their half brother, an illegitimate son of Oldrents and the nephew of the patrico of the beggars.
Rachel and Meriel, the squire's romantic daughters, who find begging, in reality, less pleasant than they had imagined.
Amie, a niece of Justice Clack. He tries to force her to marry Talboy. She runs away with Martin, joins the beggars, falls in love with Springlove, and is united with him in marriage when he is discovered to be Oldrents' son.
Master Talboy, Amie's jilted bridegroom.
Justice Clack, a talkative and officious country justice. His examination of the beggars in the presence of Oldrents leads to the needful disclosures and the happy ending.
The patrico, the priest of the beggars. He reveals to Oldrents that Springlove is Oldrents' son.
Hearty, a decayed gentleman, Oldrents'friend and a parasite.
Martin, Hearty's cowardly nephew, a second potential bridegroom disappointed in his hopes of winning Amie.
Oliver, the lecherous son of Justice Clack. He fails in his attempt to attack Rachel.
Vincent and Hilliard, the lovers of the squire's daughters, who accompany them on their adventure.