The Recruiting Officer
The Recruiting Officer
Book Brief
128
Play • Fiction
Shrewsbury, England • 1700s
1706
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Recruiting Officer, a 1706 play by George Farquhar, follows officers Plume and Brazen as they navigate romantic entanglements and attempt to recruit soldiers in Shrewsbury, England. Through a series of miscommunications, disguises, and deceptions involving Plume's love Sylvia, her cousin Melinda, and Melinda's maid Lucy, the officers face various comedic hurdles before romantic resolutions and successful recruitments conclude the story. The play contains an abduction and false accusation of sexual assault.
Humorous
Romantic
Playful
Reviews & Readership
267 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Recruiting Officer by George Farquhar is praised for its rich humor and lively characters, reflecting the socio-political climate of early 18th-century England. While many appreciate its wit and satirical edge, some critics find the plot predictable and the gender stereotypes outdated. Overall, it's a significant work within Restoration comedy, combining entertainment and commentary effectively.
Who Should Read The Recruiting Officer?
A reader who enjoys witty, satirical comedies set in the 18th century, such as Oliver Goldsmith’s She Stoops to Conquer or Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s The Rivals, would find George Farquhar's The Recruiting Officer equally delightful. This play appeals to those with an interest in historical contexts, clever dialogue, and the nuances of social commentary.
267 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Recruiting Officer was one of the most performed plays in the 18th century and was even the first play ever performed in Australia, with a staging in 1789 by the convicts of the First Fleet.
George Farquhar based some of the characters and situations on his own experiences as a recruitment officer in the army, bringing a personal touch of authenticity and humor to the work.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
The play quickly gained a reputation for its lively depiction of rural England and became well-known for its satirical approach to military recruitment practices of the time.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
128
Play • Fiction
Shrewsbury, England • 1700s
1706
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!