Love in a Wood: Analysis of Major Characters
"Love in a Wood" presents a complex web of romantic entanglements among a diverse cast of characters, each navigating their desires and societal expectations. Central to the narrative is Lady Flippant, a widow intent on marrying Sir Simon Addleplot, despite her fleeting interest in Mr. Dapperwit. Alderman Gripe, her brother, becomes embroiled in a comedic yet troubling pursuit of Lucy, leading to blackmail and a subsequent marriage driven by revenge against Dapperwit, who unwittingly marries Gripe's pregnant daughter, Mistress Martha. This situation highlights the intertwining of love, greed, and manipulation among the characters.
The story unfolds with various layers of relationships, including Mr. Ranger and Lydia, who are engaged, and Mr. Valentine, who is in love with Christina. The character dynamics are influenced by societal norms and personal ambitions, showcasing themes of power, deceit, and the quest for love. Overall, "Love in a Wood" offers a satirical yet insightful examination of romance and relationships in a whimsical, yet socially reflective context.
Love in a Wood: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: William Wycherley
First published: 1672
Genre: Play
Locale: London, England
Plot: Comedy of manners
Time: Seventeenth century
Lady Flippant, a widow in search of a husband. Although temporarily enamored of Mr. Dapperwit, to whom she makes advances, she has her eye on Sir Simon Addleplot, whom she intends all along to marry and finally does.
Alderman Gripe, an elderly usurer, Lady Flippant's brother. Enamored of Lucy, he is brought to her by Mrs. Joyner. He frightens the girl with his hasty attentions and is forced to pay five hundred pounds in hush money to her mother, Mrs. Crossbite. He later marries Lucy to get even with his son-in-law, Dapperwit.
Mr. Dapperwit, a witless fop. Enamored of Lucy, he is tricked into marrying the six-months-pregnant Mistress Martha.
Mistress Martha, Alderman Gripe's daughter. Finding herself six months pregnant, she succeeds in marrying Dapperwit.
Lucy, Mrs. Crossbite's daughter, who is in love with Dapperwit. She marries Alderman Gripe in revenge for Dapperwit's marriage to his daughter, Mistress Martha.
Sir Simon Addleplot, a fortune hunter. In pursuit of Mistress Martha, he must finally be satisfied with Lady Flippant.
Mrs. Crossbite, a procuress and Lucy's mother. She blackmails Alderman Gripe and maneuvers him into marrying her daughter.
Mrs. Joyner, a matchmaker and procuress engaged in finding a husband for Mrs. Flippant, in finding a wife for Sir Simon Addleplot, and in procuring Lucy for Alderman Gripe.
Mr. Ranger, a young man-about-town engaged to Lydia.
Mr. Vincent, Mr. Ranger's friend and confidant.
Lydia, Mr. Ranger's cousin and his betrothed.
Mr. Valentine, a young gallant betrothed to Christina.
Christina, a young woman in love with Mr. Valentine.