Question

What is Sheridan lampooning in this play?

• A. Justice and law enforcement
• B. Worldly wealth and prosperity
• C. Romantic love and courtship
• D. Gossip, malice and hypocrisy

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Gossip, malice and hypocrisy

1. Malicious Gossip and Scandal-Mongering

• Sheridan exposes the destructive power of gossip through characters like Lady Sneerwell and her circle, who spread rumors for amusement and personal gain.

• The play criticizes how society values scandal more than truth and how reputations are ruined based on lies.

2. Hypocrisy in Morality

• The contrast between Joseph Surface (who pretends to be virtuous but is actually deceitful) and Charles Surface (who appears reckless but is kind and honest) highlights the theme that true character matters more than appearances.

• The play mocks how people present themselves as moral while engaging in immoral behavior behind closed doors.