Memoirs of the Life of the Right Honourable Richard Brinsley Sheridan: Volume 1
Cambridge Library Collection - Literary Studies Series

Best known for The Rivals and The School for Scandal, Richard Brinsley Sheridan (1751?1816) was already a celebrated comic playwright when he entered Parliament in 1780. Turning his wit and talent as a writer to political oratory, he won acclaim for his speeches in the House of Commons. As an independent-minded Whig, he had to reconcile his distrust of monarchical power with his role as friend and confidant to the future George IV. Sheridan's was ultimately a turbulent life, rocked by affairs, heavy drinking and constant debt. This successful and influential two-volume biography, first published in 1825, was written by the poet Thomas Moore (1779?1852), who went on to chart the life of Lord Byron. Volume 1 covers Sheridan's early life and career as a writer, including extensive extracts from unfinished plays.

Preface; 1. Birth and education of Mr Sheridan; 2. Duel with Mr Mathews; 3. Domestic circumstances; 4. The Duenna; 5. The School for Scandal; 6. Further purchase of theatrical property; 7. Unfinished plays and poems; 8. His first speeches in Parliament; 9. The Prince of Wales; 10. Charges against Mr Hastings; 11. Impeachment of Mr Hastings.