She Stoops to Conquer

How do the cultural shifts occurring in 18th-century Britain impact class identity in She Stoops to Conquer? Analyze how a trend such as urbanization, expanding international trade, new communications technology, or improved road systems impacts the plot and class attitudes of characters in the play.

Aristotle's definition of comedy claims that comedy must imitate inferior things in order to ridicule their flaws. What or who do you think Goldsmith is mocking in She Stoops to Conquer? What is he trying to satirize or critique?

Female characters demonstrate agency throughout the play, but they must often wield their power indirectly. Discuss the methods that these women use to influence others and determine their futures. Why do you think they use these tactics? What do they reveal about women’s status and role at the time?

Compare and contrast the tricks used by Kate Hardcastle and Tony Lumpkin. How are these half-siblings similar in character and/or motivation, and how do they differ?

Analyze the significance of the “inn” as a setting throughout the play. What behaviors are permitted at inns that would be unacceptable in a private home?

Compare the romance between Kate and Marlow to the romance between Constance and Hastings. What do these relationships suggest about the basis for a successful marriage?

Mannerisms and speaking styles are an important marker of identity and personality in She Stoops to Conquer. Choose a character with a distinctive speaking style—or a character who deliberately changes their speaking style. How does Goldsmith use their dialogue to convey characterization?

What is the relationship between gender and class in the play? In what ways do notions of “proper” femininity and/or masculinity change depending on class status, or perceived class status? Why?