The Old Debauchees. A Comedy

"The Old Debauchees. A Comedy" by Henry Fielding is a comedic play written during the early 18th century. The work explores the themes of love, deception, and the follies of human behavior, particularly in relation to the intrigues surrounding marriage and religious authority. Fielding, known for his wit and social commentary, presents a satirical take on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by his characters. The play revolves around the characters of Old Laroon and Young Laroon, as they navigate romantic entanglements with Isabel and Beatrice while contending with the influence of the scheming Father Martin, a priest who aims to control their destinies through the machinations of the Church. Young Laroon is in love with Isabel, but their union is threatened by Father Martin's manipulations and pretensions of piety. The narrative unfolds through a mix of comedic misunderstandings, bold assertions of desire, and a critique of the religious and societal structures that govern relationships. Ultimately, the characters scheme and confront each other, culminating in a resolution that underscores the chaotic interplay of love, lust, and the often hypocritical nature of authority figures. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Henry Fielding was an English writer and magistrate known for the use of humour and satire in his works. His 1749 comic novel The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling was a seminal work in the genre. Along with Samuel Richardson, Fielding is seen as the founder of the traditional English novel. He also played an important role in the history of law enforcement in the United Kingdom, using his authority as a magistrate to found the Bow Street Runners, London's first professional police force.