The Contrast (ePub)

Royall Tyler (1757-1826) was an accomplished American playwright, jurist, and writer regarded as a pivotal figure in the early development of American theater. Born into a wealthy family in Boston, Massachusetts, Tyler pursued legal studies, graduating from Harvard College in 1776. His experiences during and after the American Revolution, including service in the military, deeply influenced his writing and world view.

Tyler's contribution to American Literature is most notably marked by his play 'The Contrast' (1787), which holds the distinction of being the first American comedy to be professionally staged. 'The Contrast' not only mirrored the societal shifts in post-revolutionary America but also introduced the character of 'Brother Jonathan', a predecessor to the iconic 'Uncle Sam' and an embodiment of American patriotism and simplicity. The work is celebrated for its satirical depiction of contemporary manners and its candid exploration of American identity in contrast to European influence. Focused on moral didacticism, his literary style blended humor with a sharp critique of the early Republic's cosmopolitan pretensions.

Apart from his contributions to theater, Tyler was an accomplished lawyer, serving as Chief Justice of the Vermont Supreme Court. His multifaceted life and works remain a point of reference for scholars interested in the formative years of the United States' cultural and legal history, offering insights into the interplay between law, society, and the arts during the formative period of American national identity.