Thomas Otway
Thomas Otway
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Thomas Otway was a celebrated English playwright and poet of the 17th century.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on March 18, 1652, in Westminster, London, England. He died on May 25, 1685, also in Westminster.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Thomas Otway was an Englishman by nationality, and his profession was that of a playwright and poet.
Early Life and Background
Otway's early life is shrouded in mystery, with very little documentation available. However, it is known that he came from a family of modest means and received a good education, which would later serve him well in his writing career. He was heavily influenced by the works of William Shakespeare and John Fletcher, two prominent playwrights of their time.
Major Accomplishments
Thomas Otway made significant contributions to the English theatre scene with his plays. Some of his notable works include _Friendship in Fashion_, _The Soldier's Fortune_, and _Venice Preserv'd_. His most famous play is arguably _Venice Preserv'd_, which tells the story of a conspiracy against the Doge of Venice. Otway's writing style was characterized by its use of language, intricate plot structures, and exploration of themes that were relevant to his time.
Notable Works or Actions
Otway's plays often explored complex themes such as love, friendship, and power struggles. His work was heavily influenced by the Restoration period in England, during which the monarchy had been restored following a brief period of republican rule under Oliver Cromwell. As a result, many of his plays contain references to politics and social hierarchy.
One notable example is _Venice Preserv'd_, which explores themes of power, loyalty, and corruption within the government. The play's plot revolves around a conspiracy against the Doge of Venice, highlighting the tensions between the ruling class and the governed.
Impact and Legacy
Thomas Otway's work had a lasting impact on the English theatre scene. His plays were widely performed during his lifetime and continued to be popular even after his death. _Venice Preserv'd_ remains one of his most famous works and is still studied by scholars today for its exploration of themes relevant to 17th-century England.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Thomas Otway's quotes are remembered due to his insightful observations on human nature, politics, and society. His writings offer a unique glimpse into the Restoration period in England, providing valuable insights into the social and cultural norms of the time.
Throughout his work, Otway demonstrated a keen understanding of human psychology, using complex characters and plot structures to explore themes that were relevant to his audience. His writing style was characterized by its use of vivid imagery, nuanced character development, and exploration of moral dilemmas.
In conclusion, Thomas Otway's contributions to the English theatre scene are undeniable. His plays continue to be studied and performed today, offering a window into the social and cultural norms of 17th-century England.
Quotes by Thomas Otway

Home I would go But that my doors are hateful to my eyes, Fill’d and damm’d up with gaping creditors, Watchful as fowlers when their game will spring.

Ere man’s corruptions made him wretched, he Was born most noble that was born most free; Each of himself was lord; and unconfin’d Obey’d the dictates of his godlike mind.

Honesty was a cheat invented first To bind the hands of bold deserving rogues, That fools and cowards might sit safe in power, And lord it uncontroll’d above their betters.

Cowards are scared with threatenings; boys are whipped into confession; but a steady mind acts of itself, ne’er asks the body counsel.

Oh woman! lovely woman! nature made thee To temper man; we had been brutes without you; Angels are painted fair to look like you; There’s in you all that we believe of heaven, Amazing brightness, purity, and truth, Eternal joy, and everlasting love.

How many men Have spent their blood in their dear country's service, Yet now pine under want; while selfish slaves, That even would cut their throats whom now they fawn on, Like deadly locusts, eat the honey up, Which those industrious bees so hardly toil'd for.

What mighty ills have not been done by woman! Who was't betray'd the Capitol? A woman; Who lost Mark Antony the world? A woman; Who was the cause of a long ten years' war, And laid at last old Troy is ashes? Woman; Destructive, damnable, deceitful woman!


