Critical Strictures on the New Tragedy of Elvira, Written by Mr. David Malloch

"Critical Strictures on the New Tragedy of Elvira, Written by Mr. David Malloch" is a satirical pamphlet co-authored by James Boswell, Andrew Erskine, and George Dempster, published in 1763. This literary work falls within the genre of criticism and addresses a contemporary play, "Elvira," which is itself a tragic adaptation by Malloch. The pamphlet critiques the play's quality and the author's reputation, reflecting the literary and theatrical norms of the mid-18th century. The content of "Critical Strictures" is essentially a biting commentary on Malloch's tragedy, which revolves around the themes of courtly love and familial conflict involving Don Pedro, Elvira, and the court of Portugal. The authors express their disdain for the predictable plot and lack of originality, likening Malloch’s writing to that of lesser playwrights. They lampoon the play's characterization and dramatic structure, pointing out its absurdities—such as a rebellion that is quickly resolved without genuine conflict. Despite the play running for a few nights, the criticism highlights the authors' views, suggesting that both the play and its author do not achieve the expected literary or emotional depth. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

James Boswell, 9th Laird of Auchinleck, was a Scottish biographer, diarist, and lawyer, born in Edinburgh. He is best known for his biography of the English writer Samuel Johnson, Life of Samuel Johnson, which is commonly said to be the greatest biography written in the English language. A great mass of Boswell's diaries, letters, and private papers were recovered from the 1920s to the 1950s, and their publication by Yale University has transformed his reputation.