The Elder Brother The Works of Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher (Volume 2 of 10)

"The Elder Brother" by John Fletcher, Francis Beaumont, and Philip Massinger is a comedy written during the early 17th century, known for its lively interactions and exploration of social themes. The play centers around the contrasting characters of two brothers, Charles—a bookish scholar, and Eustace—a courtly gentleman, as they navigate their relationships and ambitions in pursuit of love and social status. The opening of "The Elder Brother" introduces a rich interplay of dialogue among several key characters, laying the foundation for the central conflicts of the narrative. At the start, Lord Lewis discusses his daughter's welfare and urges her to seek a husband, reflecting on the folly of wealthy women who live without purpose. The banter reveals Angellina's dissatisfaction with the suitors and her desire for a partner who is both rich and adventurous. Eustace and Charles' contrasting dispositions are highlighted; Eustace is charming and confident in courtship, while Charles is absorbed in his scholarly pursuits, focusing more on knowledge than wealth. As the complexities of their relationships unfold, the stage is set for comedic misunderstandings and explorations of familial duty versus personal desire. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

John Fletcher was an English playwright. Following William Shakespeare as house playwright for the King's Men, he was among the most prolific and influential dramatists of his day; during his lifetime and in the Stuart Restoration, his fame rivalled Shakespeare's. Fletcher collaborated in writing plays, chiefly with Francis Beaumont or Philip Massinger, but also with Shakespeare and others.