The Orphan; Or The Unhappy Marriage. A Tragedy in Five Acts

The plot unfolds with Monimia being tricked into a secret marriage with Lysander a man who proves to be deceitful and self-serving. Despite her growing affection for Polydore the conflict between love and duty becomes unbearable. The tension reaches its peak when secrets are revealed and Monimia is left to confront the devastating repercussions of her choices. The play examines the devastating impact of betrayal forced marriages and the conflict between romantic love and familial obligation. Otway’s play is notable for its intense emotional depth and exploration of tragic love. It critiques the societal norms of the time especially the rigid expectations placed upon women while illustrating the destructive power of dishonesty and social manipulation. The Orphan is a poignant commentary on the consequences of an unhappy marriage and the vulnerability of those caught in such circumstances making it a classic example of Restoration tragedy.