Representative Plays by American Dramatists: 1856-1911: Love in '76 An Incident of the Revolution

A brisk, witty comedy set against the backdrop of the American Revolution, this short play captures the sparkle of 1850s parlour humor while steering clear of grandiose patriotism. The story follows a pair of young lovers whose affections become tangled in the chaos of revolutionary politics, offering playful banter and clever misunderstandings that keep the action light and engaging. The dialogue is peppered with contemporary references that feel both fresh and historically grounded, giving listeners a glimpse of everyday sentiment during a tumultuous era.

First staged in a New York benefit performance, the piece was praised for its spirited pace and the absence of heavy‑handed moralizing, relying instead on sharp characterization and lively repartee. Though brief, the work showcases the playwright’s knack for blending romance with social observation, making it an enjoyable listen for those who appreciate a gleeful snapshot of 18th‑century life rendered through mid‑19th‑century theatrical flair.