This comedic play revolves around two protagonists who both use the pseudonym "Ernest" to escape their social obligations. Their plans unravel when they fall in love and their betrothed women reveal they are only willing to marry men named Ernest. The situation is further complicated by a case of mistaken identity, a lost handbag, and a surprising revelation about one of the protagonist's parentage. The play uses wit and humor to satirize the social conventions of Victorian England, particularly the importance placed on trivialities.

This collection features selected plays by a renowned playwright, showcasing his wit, social criticism, and talent for character development. The plays touch on a wide range of themes, including class struggles, the complexities of love, the absurdity of war, and the pursuit of individual freedom. The author's sharp dialogue and satirical approach make these plays both entertaining and thought-provoking, reflecting his progressive views and his belief in the potential for societal change.

The play is a classic comedy of manners set in 18th-century Bath, England, revolving around the romantic misunderstandings and the social pretensions of its characters. The central plot follows the young Lydia Languish, who is enamored with the idea of a romantic elopement and disdains the idea of a conventional marriage. She is pursued by Captain Jack Absolute, who disguises himself as a poor ensign named Beverley to win her affections. Meanwhile, other characters engage in their own schemes and rivalries: Lydia's aunt, Mrs. Malaprop, with her famously mangled vocabulary, seeks a suitable match for her niece, while the hotheaded Sir Lucius O'Trigger and the bumbling Bob Acres both vie for the hand of the same woman. The play is a satirical examination of love, language, and social affectation.

This play revolves around the love triangle between a clergyman, his wife, and a young poet who idolizes her. The clergyman, who is a popular Christian Socialist, is oblivious to the poet's infatuation with his wife. The poet eventually confesses his love and proposes a "bidding" for Candida's affection, where both men will state their cases as to why she should choose them. In the end, Candida chooses her husband, stating that he is the one who truly needs her.

The play is a comedic look at the social and sexual rivalries in a small English town during wartime. It follows the charming Captain Plume and the scheming Sergeant Kite as they attempt to recruit soldiers for the British army while navigating the affections of the local women. The story unfolds with a series of romantic entanglements, mistaken identities, and satirical takes on class and gender dynamics, culminating in a series of humorous and unexpected resolutions for the characters' various pursuits of love, social status, and military glory.

This collection of works by a renowned 19th-century playwright is a brilliant exploration of social satire, wit, and the examination of Victorian society's norms and hypocrisies. The plays within often feature sharp dialogue, complex characters, and intricate plots that challenge social mores and personal morality. Themes such as the superficial nature of social status, the conflict between true love and societal expectation, and the duality of human nature are woven throughout these comedic yet thought-provoking dramas. The author's clever use of language and paradox, along with his critique of aristocratic attitudes, ensure that the plays remain enduring favorites on the stage and continue to engage readers and audiences with their timeless relevance and humor.