The Double-Dealer

play by Congreve

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June 25, 2026

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The Double-Dealer is a play written by William Congreve, a prominent English dramatist known for his contributions to the comedy of manners. First performed in 1693, the play was not initially as well-received as some of Congreve's other works, though it later gained critical admiration. It is characterized by Congreve's signature brilliant comic dialogue and satirical portrayal of societal affectations, particularly concerning the "war of the sexes." The term "double-dealer" itself refers to someone who practices deceit or treachery.12

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William Congreve
Literary career
His next play, The Double-Dealer, played in November or December at Drury Lane but did not meet with the same applause (it later became the more critically admired work, however). Its published form contained a panegyrical introduction by Dryden. Love for Love almost repeated the success of his…
Read More
His next play, The Double-Dealer, played in November or December at Drury Lane but did not meet with the same applause (it later became the more critically admired work, however). Its published form contained a panegyrical introduction by Dryden. Love for Love almost repeated the success of his…
Read More