The Provoked Wife

*The Provoked Wife* is a Restoration comedy by John Vanbrugh that explores themes of marriage, loyalty, and social expectations. It centers on Maliphant, a man who mistreats his wife, Belinda, leading her to seek independence and assert her dignity. The play examines how social pressures and personal frustrations influence behavior, highlighting the importance of trust and honesty in relationships. With sharp wit and clever dialogue, it offers a satirical look at marriage customs of the time, emphasizing the need for integrity and respect within those partnerships.