Susanna Centlivre 
The Perplex’d Lovers [EPUB ebook] 

Susanna Centlivre’s ‘The Perplex’d Lovers’ is a captivating play that blends elements of comedy, romance, and drama. Set in the 18th century, the play follows the intertwining stories of two couples as they navigate love, misunderstandings, and social conventions. Centlivre’s witty dialogue and sharp characterizations highlight the complexities of relationships and societal expectations, making ‘The Perplex’d Lovers’ a timeless classic in English literature. The play’s fast-paced plot and engaging dialogue make it an entertaining read while also offering insightful commentary on love and marriage during the author’s era. Centlivre’s skillful use of humor and satire adds depth to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking literary work that continues to resonate with readers today. With its engaging plot and rich character development, ‘The Perplex’d Lovers’ is a must-read for anyone interested in 18th-century literature, romantic comedy, or social commentary.

About the author

Susanna Centlivre (circa 1667-1723), nee Freeman, was a celebrated British playwright and poet, part of the vanguard in the early 18th century English literature and theater. Despite the obscurity surrounding her early life, Centlivre established herself as a literary force in a dominantly male arena. With a legacy of over nineteen plays, her work often engaged with themes of love, marriage, and social class, imbued with sharp wit and an appreciation for farce (‘The Perplex’d Lovers’, 1712, being a notable example). Her comedic prowess and the strong roles she crafted for women were distinctive, often challenging the societal norms of her time. A master of the comedic genre, Centlivre’s plays were second in popularity only to the works of the great William Shakespeare during her tenure at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Her ability to blend elements of Restoration comedy with the emerging sentimental style endeared her to audiences and ensured the enduring performance of her works well into the 19th century. Centlivre’s literary style was marked by an astute understanding of character and dialogue, making her one of the most important female playwrights of the early 18th century, and her oeuvre a subject of scholarly interest in the studies of gender, literature, and history.