A Will and No Will; or, A Bone for the Lawyers. (1746) The New Play Criticiz'd, or the Plague of Envy. (1747)

Name: A Will and No Will; or, A Bone for the Lawyers. (1746) The New Play Criticiz'd, or the Plague of Envy. (1747)
Author: Charles Macklin

By Charles Macklin

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Humour

About This Book

The volume gathers two short comic afterpieces by an eighteenth-century stage writer: the first condenses a French five-act comedy into a brisk two-act farce that lampoons lawyers, physicians, and itinerant preachers through a convoluted will-and-marriage plot and a long mock-prologue featuring a caricatured lawyer; the second is a topical burlesque of theatrical criticism that satirizes envious reviewers and rival playwrights by staging exaggerated detractors, romantic entanglements, and mockery of theatrical devices and fashions. Both pieces rely on stage caricature, topical allusion, and self-mockery, prioritizing immediate audience entertainment over formal unity.

About the Author

Charles Macklin

Charles Macklin was an influential Irish actor and playwright active in the 18th century, known for his contributions to the development of English theatre. He gained prominence for his innovative performances and his ability to portray complex characters. Among his notable works is "The Man of the World" (1792), which reflects his keen insight into human nature and societal issues. Macklin's plays often combined humor with sharp social commentary, as seen in titles like "A Will and No Will" and "The Covent Garden Theatre." His legacy is marked by his role in shaping the theatrical landscape of his time, making him a significant figure in literary heritage.