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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Act 1, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Female Literacy:
Female literacy is a central motif in the play, as demonstrated by the frequent letter-writing and circulation of messages that occurs between various characters. The letters exchanged in the play between women and the men they love (or at the very least desire to seduce) reveal Sheridan’s perspective on courtship practices at the time. Lydia’s reading of novels is a particularly significant instance of female literacy in the play. In Act 1, Scene 2, the voracity of Lydia’s novel appetites are revealed in a conversation with her maid Lucy:
Lucy: Indeed, ma’am, I traversed half the town in search of it: I don’t believe there’s a circulating library in Bath I ha’n’t been at.
Lydia: And could not you get The Reward of Constancy?
Lucy: No, indeed, ma’am.
Lydia: Nor The Fatal Connection?
Lucy: No, indeed, ma’am.
Lydia: Nor The Mistakes of the Heart?
Lucy: Ma’am, as ill-luck would have it, Mr Bull said Miss Sukey Saunter had just fetched it away.
Lydia: Heigh-ho! – did you inquire for The Delicate Distress?
Lucy: Or The Memoirs of Lady Woodford? Yes indeed, ma’am.
Related Themes:
