Richard Sheridan
Richard Sheridan
Full Name and Common Aliases
Richard Brinsley Sheridan was a renowned Irish playwright, poet, politician, and theatre manager. He is commonly known by his initials, R.B.S.
Birth and Death Dates
Sheridan was born on October 30, 1751, in Dublin, Ireland, and passed away on July 7, 1816, at the age of 64.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Sheridan held both Irish and British nationalities. Throughout his life, he excelled as a playwright, poet, politician, and theatre manager. His work spanned multiple genres, including comedy, tragedy, and farce.
Early Life and Background
Born into an aristocratic family, Sheridan's father was Thomas Sheridan, a renowned actor and elocutionist. Richard's early life was marked by his education at Harrow School in England before attending the University of Oxford. His connection to theatre began with his early involvement in school plays. This exposure laid the foundation for his future success as a playwright.
Major Accomplishments
Sheridan made significant contributions to the world of theatre and politics. Some of his most notable accomplishments include:
Theatrical successes: Sheridan's plays, such as "The Rivals," "The School for Scandal," and "A Trip to Scarborough," became incredibly popular in London's West End. His comedies remain celebrated for their wit and satire.
Political career: Sheridan was elected Member of Parliament (MP) for Staffordshire in 1780, representing the Whig Party. He served as a prominent figure in British politics until his expulsion from parliament in 1812.
Notable Works or Actions
Sheridan's notable works are a testament to his innovative spirit and artistic talent:
"The Rivals," a comedy that premiered at London's Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in 1775. This groundbreaking play showcased Sheridan's ability to craft engaging dialogue and memorable characters.
"The School for Scandal," a satirical comedy of manners that first appeared on the London stage in 1777. The play continues to be performed today, offering commentary on the societal norms of its time.
Impact and Legacy
Richard Sheridan's impact extends far beyond his theatrical and political achievements:
Influence on literature: His plays are celebrated for their clever use of language, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes.
Theatre management: As a theatre manager, Sheridan played a pivotal role in shaping the London theatre scene. He was instrumental in reviving the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, which became one of the most famous theatres in the world.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Sheridan's work continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations:
Enduring popularity: His plays remain a staple of classical theatre, offering timeless commentary on human nature and society.
Influence on contemporary works: Sheridan's influence can be seen in the works of modern playwrights and writers who continue to draw inspiration from his innovative style.
With his remarkable talent, intelligence, and charismatic personality, Richard Sheridan left an indelible mark on both the world of theatre and British politics.
Quotes by Richard Sheridan
I open with a clock striking, to beget an awful attention in the audience -- it also marks the time, which is four o clock in the morning, and saves a description of the rising sun, and a great deal about gilding the eastern hemisphere.
Take care; you know I am compliance itself, when I am not thwarted! No one more easily led, when I have my own way; but don't put me in a frenzy.
For if there is anything to one's praise, it is foolish vanity to be gratified at it, and if it is abuse -- why one is always sure to hear of it from one damned good-natured friend or another!
The Right Honorable Gentleman is indebted to his memory for his jests, and to his imagination for his facts
The right honorable gentlemen is indebted to his memory for his jokes and his imagination for his facts.
When of a gossiping circle it was asked, What are they doing? The answer was, Swapping lies.
I wish sir, you would practice this without me. I can't stay dying here all night
Here, my dear Lucy, hide these books. Quick, quick! Fling ''Peregrine Pickle'' under the toilette --throw ''Roderick Random'' into the closet --put ''The Innocent Adultery'' into ''The Whole Duty of Man''; thrust ''Lord Aimworth'' under the sofa! cram ''Ovid'' behind the bolster; there --put ''The Man of Feeling'' into your pocket. Now for them.
The glorious uncertainty of the law was a thing well known and complained of, by all ignorant people, but all learned gentleman considered it as its greatest excellency