Original Plays [First Series] (ePub)

Sir William Schwenck Gilbert, known as W. S. Gilbert (1836-1911), was an eminent English playwright, poet, and lyricist, renowned for his creative partnership with the composer Sir Arthur Sullivan. Together, Gilbert and Sullivan crafted some of the most enduringly popular operettas of the Victorian era. Gilbert's wit, satire, and signature 'topsy-turvydom', where logical absurdities abound, defined his literary style, and these traits infused his libretti for the Savoy operas, earning him accolades in the history of musical theatre and English literature. Among his numerous works, 'Original Plays [First Series]' is a significant contribution that includes several of his non-musical plays which further showcase his command of language and exploration of social mores. Gilbert's sharp satire often targeted the establishment, challenging Victorian values through his unique blend of humor and poetic brilliance. His influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping not only the field of comic opera but also contributing to the development of modern satire. Gilbert's legacy is secured not only through his extensive literary output but also thanks to the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, which was formed to produce the works of Gilbert and Sullivan, thus ensuring that his contribution to English operetta continues to be revered and enjoyed by audiences around the world.