The Stolen Heiress

"The Stolen Heiress" by Susanna Centlivre is a captivating comedy of intrigue and mistaken identity set in 18th-century England. The play follows the fortunes of Lady Jealousy, an aging and possessive widow, who seeks to marry off her niece, Isabinda, to the wealthy Sir Charles Meriwell. However, complications arise when Isabinda falls in love with Colonel Standard, a charming young soldier of humble birth. To complicate matters further, Isabinda's long-lost brother, Tom, returns from sea and becomes embroiled in a series of misunderstandings and deceptions. As the plot unfolds, identities are mistaken, secrets are revealed, and true love triumphs over social convention and familial expectations. Centlivre's witty dialogue and clever plotting keep audiences entertained as the characters navigate the complexities of love, marriage, and class distinction.