The New Woman: An Original Comedy, in Four Acts

"The New Woman: An Original Comedy, in Four Acts" by Sydney Grundy is a play that shows the changing roles of women in society during the late 1800s through the life of Gerald Cazenove as he navigates love and social expectations, particularly regarding women's rights and identity. The story begins with Gerald talking to his uncle, Colonel Cazenove, about how women have changed his life, especially when it comes to education and what society expects. Gerald expresses his affection for Margery, a woman of lower social status, challenging his past ideas about love and friendship. As more characters appear, discussions begin regarding the shifting nature of relationships and the topic of feminism. The beginning introduces a funny yet serious mood to the play which focuses on the complicated nature of marriage and identity during a period of social change.