The Conscious Lovers, a comedy in five acts by Irish playwright Richard Steele, follows an impoverished but courageous young woman named Indiana Danvers, who is accused of being a prostitute, yet ultimately ends up with the man she loves, the young Bevil, after overcoming numerous misunderstandings and social obstacles, and demonstrates the rewards of virtuous behavior and the importance of obeying one's parents.

Reviews of Richard Steele's play The Conscious Lovers reveal it as a refined comedy that emphasizes moral lessons over the typical farcical elements of its contemporaries. Critics appreciate its wit and elevation of character virtues; however, some find its sentimentality and slower pacing less engaging. Overall, it is valued for its innovative approach to comedy and social commentary.

Readers who appreciate works like Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice or William Congreve's The Way of the World will enjoy Richard Steele's The Conscious Lovers. This play appeals to those who enjoy 18th-century comedy of manners, highlighting social mores and romantic entanglements with wit and elegance.

Romantic / Humorous / Inspirational / Heartwarming / Contemplative

- The Conscious Lovers is a comedy by Richard Steele first performed in 1722 and is often credited with helping to establish the trend of sentimental comedy in the 18th century, blending humor with moral messages.
- The play was inspired by an earlier work, Andria, a comedy by the Roman playwright Terence, demonstrating Steele's penchant for drawing on classical sources.
- Richard Steele was one of the co-founders of The Spectator, a daily publication that significantly influenced 18th-century British society and literature.

**John Bevil Jr.**  
The protagonist, son of Sir John Bevil, is known for being sensible, kind, generous, and obedient, particularly in his relationships with his father and his love interest, Indiana.  

**Charles Myrtle**  
A friend of Bevil Jr., portrayed as hot-tempered and jealous, especially regarding his desire to marry Lucinda amid competing suitors and familial expectations.  

**Indiana**  
A woman of ambiguous social standing with a tragic past, who is the love interest of Bevil Jr. and remains patient despite the complexities of her relationship with him.  

**Lucinda**  
The daughter of Sealand, caught in a marital dilemma between pleasing her parents' ambitions and her own love for Myrtle, while remaining respectful of social norms.  

**Sir John Bevil**  
The father of Bevil Jr., a former libertine turned responsible parent who is concerned about his son's future and moral character.  

**Tom**  
The servant of Bevil Jr., known for his comedic elements and embodiment of lower-class aspirations, often engaging in schemes with mixed success.  

**Phillis**  
A lower-class woman, unlike Lucinda and Indiana, she openly pursues her passion for Tom, reflecting the play's exploration of class distinctions.

Richard Steele

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Play

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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The Conscious Lovers Summary

Background

The Conscious Lovers Background

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Act Summaries & Analyses

Dedication-Act I

The Conscious Lovers Dedication-Act I Summary & Analysis

Act II

The Conscious Lovers Act II Summary & Analysis

Act III

The Conscious Lovers Act III Summary & Analysis

Act IV

The Conscious Lovers Act IV Summary & Analysis

Act V-Epilogue

The Conscious Lovers Act V-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

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Character Analysis

The Conscious Lovers Character Analysis

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Themes

The Conscious Lovers Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Conscious Lovers Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Conscious Lovers Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Conscious Lovers Essay Topics

The Conscious Lovers

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Conscious Lovers?

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