Falstaff's Wedding
by William Kenrick

Name: Falstaff's Wedding
Author: William Kenrick

Falstaff's Wedding is a play written by William Kenrick in the 18th century. It serves as a sequel to Shakespeare's works Henry IV, Part 2 and The Merry Wives of Windsor, featuring familiar characters from those plays. The play exists in two distinct versions. The original, published in 1760, depicts a serious plot involving Falstaff and an attempt on the life of King Henry V. This version was not well-received and a revised, comedic version was produced in 1766, transforming the play into a farce. The revised version emphasizes humor and lightheartedness, shedding the serious elements of the original.

'Falstaff's Wedding' Summary

Kenrick's play follows the antics of Sir John Falstaff, the infamous character from Shakespeare's works. In the first version, Falstaff is ensnared in a conspiracy to assassinate King Henry V. The play explores themes of betrayal, political intrigue, and the consequences of Falstaff's past actions. This version, however, failed to capture the audience's favor. The revised version, released in 1766, takes a different approach, focusing on comedic situations and exaggerated characters. It features Falstaff's pursuit of a wife, his comical encounters with various characters, and his attempts to navigate the challenges of love and marriage. The play is a blend of Shakespearean references, witty dialogue, and farcical situations, offering a lighthearted and amusing exploration of the world of Sir John Falstaff.