Discuss the information provided by Act 1, Scene 1 and how it advances the plot of the play.
Act 1, Scene 1 of Oliver Goldsmith's play "She Stoops to Conquer" provides important information about the characters and the setting of the play, as well as the initial conflict that drives the plot forward.
In this scene, we are introduced to Mr. Hardcastle, a wealthy gentleman who lives in the countryside with his daughter Kate, and his wife. The scene opens with Mr. Hardcastle speaking with his servant Tony Lumpkin, who is described as a mischievous young man with a fondness for practical jokes.
The conflict in this scene arises when Mr. Hardcastle tells Tony that he has arranged for two young gentlemen, Mr. Marlow and Mr. Hastings, to visit his home and meet Kate. However, Tony has different plans and decides to play a trick on the young gentlemen by directing them to an inn instead of Mr. Hardcastle's house.
This information advances the plot by setting up the initial conflict of the play, which revolves around the miscommunication and misunderstandings that arise between the characters. The information also provides important background information about the characters and their relationships, which will become important as the play progresses.
In simple terms, Act 1, Scene 1 provides the foundation for the events that will take place in the rest of the play by introducing the main characters, setting the stage for the initial conflict, and establishing the mischievous nature of Tony Lumpkin.