The Pride of Wealth: Hypocrisy and Money in The School for Scandal Anonymous College

Across the world of English literature, there are several eras of literary hallmarks. From the Elizabethan period with its fantastical scenes to the 18th century with its Augustan characteristics, the United Kingdom has provided a colorful collection of diverse literature. However, Restoration literature is unique in its pursuit of extremes - whether good or bad, Restoration works are rife with high-spirited plays and moral wisdoms. No other Restoration work stands out more than Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s The School for Scandal, especially when it comes to its moral wisdoms. Despite the overall malice and deplorability of the characters within The School for Scandal, the play is presenting several arguments about morality: namely, that money is a corrupting force. In the case of The School for Scandal’s cast, Sheridan is making the argument that people are generally whole until wealth impedes upon their personhood.

It is impossible to discuss this particular Restoration play without first briefly discussing the life of Richard Sheridan himself. Sheridan came from a greatly theatrical family, born into some manner of wealth in 1751 - just one year into the Age of Sensibility. It is likely that Sheridan thus grew up in an era of...