Staying up-to-date with the latest fashions preoccupies many of the characters in The Rivals, but it is a telltale sign that a character is a country bumpkin if he discusses his appearance. Servants from the countryside worry about the new fashion that dictates that men should give up wearing wigs, which made them feel more comfortable about their appearances, while Squire Acres has just gotten a dramatic new haircut. These discussions show that sometimes vanity and pretentions to be fashionable come into conflict with one another, while the true sign of class (as Sheridan sees it) is not to discuss such matters at all.
Hairstyles Quotes in The Rivals
FAG
I had forgot.—But, Thomas, you must polish a little—indeed you
must.—Here now—this wig!—What the devil do you do with a wig,
Thomas?—None of the London whips of any degree of ton wear wigs now.
THOMAS
More's the pity! more's the pity! I say.—Odd's life! when I heard how the lawyers and doctors had took to their own hair, I thought how 'twould go next:—odd rabbit it! when the fashion had got foot on the bar, I guessed 'twould mount to the box!—but 'tis all out of character, believe me, Mr. Fag: and look'ee, I'll never gi' up mine—the lawyers and doctors may do as they will.
Hairstyles Symbol Timeline in The Rivals
