# Richard Steele _Edited, with an Introduction and Notes by G. A. Aitken_ By Richard Steele, Sir. "The Complete Plays of Richard Steele" by Sir Richard Steele is a collection of comedies written in the early 18th century. This anthology highlights Steele's contributions to the English drama, showcasing his wit and humor similar to that found in his renowned periodical essays like the "Tatler" and "Spectator." The plays included tackle themes of love, society, and morality, featuring characters such as the earnest widower Lord Brumpton and the charming Lady Sharlot. The opening of the collection introduces Richard Steele's background and his journey as a playwright while elaborating on the theatrical landscape of his time. It reveals how Steele’s early life, including a brief military career, informed his comedic writing and themes, culminating in stage productions like "The Funeral," which critiques societal attitudes towards mourning and showcases his satirical perspective on human behavior. The text provides an insightful overview of the historical context and highlights significant elements that resonate throughout his works. (Summary by Project Gutenberg, written by machine.) - Language: English - Editor: George Atherton Aitken - Subjects: English drama (Comedy); Steele, Richard, Sir, 1672-1729 [Read it](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/books/gutenberg/55922/read) [Plain text](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/api/books/gutenberg/55922/text) ## Audiobooks of it - [Conscious Lovers](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/books/librivox/14609) by Richard Steele (2 h 56 min, English) - [Lying Lover: or, The Ladies' Friendship](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/books/librivox/13748) by Richard Steele (2 h 44 min, English) - [Funeral: or Grief A-La-Mode](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/books/librivox/13262) by Richard Steele (2 h 54 min, English) - [Tender Husband: or The Accomplished Fools](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/books/librivox/14065) by Richard Steele (1 h 58 min, English) From Project Gutenberg. Public domain in the United States.