The Way of the World
The Way of the World, first staged in 1700, is William Congreve's last and most admired comedy. Mirabell loves Millamant, but her fortune depends on the consent of her aunt Lady Wishfort, whom Mirabell has offended by pretending to court her. Around them move the double-dealing Fainall and his mistress Mrs. Marwood, a disguised servant posing as a baronet, and a pair of country cousins. The intrigue is dense, but the play is remembered for its talk: the famous proviso scene in which Mirabell and Millamant negotiate the terms of their marriage is one of the sharpest exchanges in English comedy. It was coolly received at first and Congreve wrote no more plays. The full text is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, and the first act is free.
Start reading right away, without signing up. The complete text is included in Vinteuil Reading, or yours forever with a one-time purchase.
Frequently asked questions about The Way of the World
The Way of the World by William Congreve can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read The Way of the World online?
Yes. The Way of the World opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is The Way of the World free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of The Way of the World is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is The Way of the World in the public domain?
Yes. The Way of the World by William Congreve is a public-domain work. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read The Way of the World?
About 1 h 54 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is The Way of the World?
The Way of the World by William Congreve is filed under "Drama" in the Vinteuil library.
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