The Female Wits

"The Female Wits" by Anonymous is a humorous play that shows what it was like for women playwrights in the 1700s who were figuring out their role in a world mostly run by men. The story follows three women writers, much like Mary de la Riviere Manley, as they deal with being criticized and judged unfairly because they are women. The play kicks of by introducing Marsilia, a stuck-up poet who loves attention, as she gets ready for a practice run. As she talks to her maid and another writer, Mrs. Wellfed, it becomes clear they are all competing with each other and how ridiculous their goals are. Their talks are full of funny and mean comments about making plays, the part women play in writing, and always wanting to be liked in a world run by men. The play is funny, lively, and a bit over-the-top as it takes place behind the scenes, filled with drama and cleverness.