The Relapse is a play that follows two love stories. The first is of a young couple, Amanda and her husband Loveless who lead a quiet life in the countryside. Before the two were married, Loveless was known for his womanizing traits. He spent most of his youth in bed with different women all of whom he bore no true feelings for. However, he managed to convince Amanda that he is not the same man anymore. Amanda, loyal to her husband decided to trust his promises and agreed to marry him.
Shortly after the couple returns to London, Loveless falls back into his wicked habits. After spending time in the theater, Loveless falls for the beautiful Berinthia only to realize that she is Amanda’s cousin. This does not stop him from pursuing her. Amanda is also faced with similar temptations but remains loyal to her cheating husband. Berinthia’s former boyfriend is determined to break her marriage and hopefully start a relationship with her. His lusts are short-lived when Amanda turns him down.
The second love story follows Lord Foppington who hopes to marry the daughter of a wealthy nobleman. Unwilling to take any risks, Lord Foppington summons a matchmaker to intervene on his behalf in exchange for payment. After speaking to the girl’s family everything is set but before the wedding, the matchmaker senses that Lord Foppington, stingy as he is, will refuse to honor their agreement. So instead of introducing the real Foppington to the girl’s family, the matchmaker introduces Lord Foppington’s younger brother, Young Fashion and the two are married.
Young Fashion wanted to take revenge on his brother after he refused to share part of their inheritance. By the time Lord Foppington realizes their actual plan, it is too late. The beautiful and wealthy bride is already married to his younger brother.
