RICHARD BRINSLEY SHERIDAN : A STUDY OF HIS DRAMATIC ACHIEVEMENTS

Abstract

At the close of the eighteenth and the beginning of the nineteenth century, Richard Brinsley Sheridan was one of the most conspicuous figures in England and the most successful dramatists of his day. He was born in Dublin but made his name in England. He was influenced by both his father who was an actor and teacher of elocution and his mother a famous playwright and novelist in his dramatic career.

In 1775, Sheridan wrote his first play The Rivals at the age of twenty-three. Its success was regarded as a turning point in his life since he was known by everfbody. It brought him fame, money, notice and a number of desirable acquaintances. On the 2nd of May 1775, Sheridan produced his first farce St. Patrick's Day but it was a minor play since it was written for an Irish actor named Clinch, therefore he was not perfect in proposing it.

On the 21st of November, 1775, a comic opera named The Duenna was performed. It proved an immediate success which gave Sheridan the undeniable gratifications of popularity and profit.