Comedy of Manners

Comedy of manners is a genre of comedic drama that satirizes the behaviors, attitudes, and social norms of a particular class, often the upper class or aristocracy. It typically features witty dialogue, clever misunderstandings, and intricate plots revolving around romantic entanglements and social status. The characters are often portrayed as obsessed with appearances and etiquette, highlighting the absurdities of their societal roles. Notable examples include plays by George Farquhar and Oscar Wilde. This genre exposes the ridiculousness of certain social conventions, prompting both laughter and reflection on societal behavior.