The Country Wife

The Country Wife includes a number of intriguing observations about the theatre itself. In particular it introduces the idea of the theatre as a place to be viewed (Act II Scene i). The audience isn't just viewing the action of the play, but is paying particular attention to the other members of the audience. Is this a concept that first appears during the Restoration or is it part of the Jacobean and Caroline stages? This viewing is portrayed by Wycherly as a necessarily sexualized interaction. Viewing and being viewed appear to be at the heart of the Wycherly's portrayal of adultery. Is this sort of argumentation Restoration specific, or is this understanding of 'view' part of anti-theatrical descriptions of theatre before the English Civil War?

The characters in The Country Wife and Wycherly (particularly in his stage directions) are particularly interested in physical location. Covent Garden, Russell Street, Cheapside, The New Exchange, Hampshire, Chateline's, and many other locations are being constantly referenced throughout the play. Is speaking the symbolic language of these places a form of cultural competence? Is Mrs. Pinchwife's lack of familiarity with London geography meant to portray her as 'ignorant' of culture? How does that relate to her husbands disconnect from the events of the city (as he returns from the country) that are highlighted in Harcourt's line, "He's come newly to town, it seems, and has not heard how things are with him [Horner]" (II.i)?