Critique of Social Classes: Congreve uses his play to criticize the upper classes, particularly the wealthy and aristocratic individuals. He portrays their superficiality, vanity, and obsession with wealth and social status. The characters engage in scheming, manipulation, and hypocrisy in order to maintain or improve their positions in society. Congreve highlights the emptiness of their lives and the lack of genuine human connections.
Satire on Marriage and Relationships: The play satirizes the institution of marriage and the concept of love prevalent in the society. Congreve portrays how marriages are often based on financial calculations and social convenience rather than genuine affection or compatibility. The characters' romantic pursuits are marked by deception, betrayal, and a lack of emotional depth. Through these portrayals, Congreve critiques the superficiality and materialism of the society.
Criticism of Gender Roles: Congreve's play also offers commentary on gender roles and the treatment of women. Women are depicted as objects to be pursued, controlled, and dominated by men. They lack agency and are often portrayed as commodities in the marriage market. Congreve's critique highlights the inequality and oppression faced by women in the society.
Critique of Morality: The play presents a critique of the moral standards of the upper classes. The characters engage in immoral and unethical behavior without facing any significant consequences. Congreve uses this to criticize the hypocrisy and double standards that exist in the society. He questions the true nature of morality and the ways in which social conventions shape people's actions.
Social Mobility and Class Boundaries: Congreve also addresses the issue of social mobility and the class divisions that existed in society. The character of Mirabell represents a challenge to the established social hierarchy as he attempts to rise above his social status and marry the woman he loves. Through Mirabell's journey, Congreve comments on the difficulty of breaking down class barriers and the limitations imposed on individuals based on their birth and social background.
Overall, "Way of the World" serves as a powerful critique of the social, moral, and cultural values of the Restoration era. Through satire, humor, and exaggerated characters, Congreve holds up a mirror to society and exposes its flaws, hypocrisies, and follies. The play encourages critical reflection and challenges the audience to question the norms and conventions of their own society.