"The Way of the World" by William Congreve is a witty and satirical play that brilliantly captures the societal norms and values of the upper class in 18th century England. The characters are well-developed and the dialogue is sharp and clever, full of humor and irony. The plot is intricate and engaging, dealing with themes of money, love, and power in a clever and entertaining way. Congreve's writing is masterful, drawing the reader in with its wit and charm. Overall, "The Way of the World" is a delightful and thought-provoking play that still resonates with audiences today.

Book Description:
The Way of the World is a play written by British playwright William Congreve. It premiered in 1700 in the theatre in Lincoln's Inn Fields in London. It is widely regarded as being one of the best Restoration comedies written and is still performed sporadically to this day.

The play is based around the two lovers Mirabell and Millamant (originally famously played by John Verbruggen and Anne Bracegirdle). In order for the two to get married and receive Millamant's full dowry, Mirabell must receive the blessing of Millamant's aunt, Lady Wishfort. Unfortunately, she is a very bitter lady, who despises Mirabell and wants her own nephew, Sir Wilful, to wed Millamant.

Other characters include Fainall who is having a secret affair with Mrs. Marwood, a friend of Mrs. Fainall's, who in turn once had an affair with Mirabell.

Waitwell is Mirabell's servant and is married to Foible, Lady Wishfort's servant. Waitwell pretends to be Sir Rowland and, on Mirabell's command, tries to trick Lady Wishfort into a false engagement.