Dolly reforming herself

A study of morality and social expectations in edwardian england

Henry Arthur Jones

80 pages, parution le 02/04/2024

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Résumé

"Dolly Reforming Herself" is a comedic play by Henry Arthur Jones, set in the Edwardian era, that explores themes of morality, social expectations, and personal reform. The narrative unfolds in the drawing-room of Harry Telfer's country house in Surrey, where a group of characters, including Dolly Telfer, her husband Harry, her father Matt Barron, and their guests, grapple with the implications of a sermon delivered by the local vicar, Mr. Pilcher. The sermon inspires resolutions for self-improvement among the characters, particularly Dolly, who vows to manage her finances better, and Harry, who aims to curb his temper. The play delves into the complexities of human behavior and the struggle between personal desires and societal norms. Dolly's cousin, Captain Lucas Wentworth, becomes entangled in a flirtation with Renie Sturgess, the wife of Professor Sturgess, which threatens to disrupt the social harmony of the household. The situation is further complicated by the Professor's scientific views on human behavior, which challenge the notion of free will and moral responsibility. As the characters navigate their personal dilemmas, the play humorously critiques the superficiality of social conventions and the often hypocritical nature of moral posturing. The interactions between the characters reveal the tension between genuine self-improvement and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Ultimately, "Dolly Reforming Herself" offers a satirical yet insightful commentary on the challenges of personal reform and the influence of social dynamics in Edwardian society.