Publisher's Synopsis
The Double Dealer is a play written by the English playwright William Congreve. It was first performed in 1693 and is considered one of Congreve's most significant works. The plot revolves around the character of Mellefont, a young man who is engaged to Cynthia, the daughter of Lord Touchwood. However, Mellefont's plans are threatened by the scheming of his friend, Maskwell, who is secretly in love with Cynthia and seeks to undermine Mellefont's relationship with her. The play is a complex exploration of love, deception, and betrayal, with a cast of characters that includes the manipulative Lady Touchwood, the wise and witty Lady Plyant, and the foolish Sir Paul Plyant. Congreve's writing is known for its sharp wit and clever dialogue, and The Double Dealer is no exception. It is a masterful example of Restoration comedy, with a plot that twists and turns with surprising revelations and unexpected twists. Overall, The Double Dealer is a timeless work of literature that continues to captivate audiences with its timeless themes and timeless humor.LORD TOUCH. I don't believe it true; he has better principles. Pho, 'tis nonsense. Come, come, I know my Lady Plyant has a large eye, and would centre everything in her own circle; 'tis not the first time she has mistaken respect for love, and made Sir Paul jealous of the civility of an undesigning person, the better to bespeak his security in her unfeigned pleasures.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.