The Scape-Goat: A Farce in One Act

"The Scape-Goat: A Farce in One Act" by John Poole is a comedic play written in the early 19th century. This farce revolves around themes of love, misunderstanding, and the societal constraints of marriage during the Regency era in Britain. The plot centers on the youthful dilemmas faced by Charles, a young man caught between his romantic desires and the strict oversight of his tutor, Ignatius Polyglot. The storyline unfolds as Charles confesses to Polyglot that he is in love, only for Polyglot to panic over the perceived dangers of romance. Charles reveals that he is already married to Harriet, the daughter of a deceased officer, but has kept it a secret to avoid his father's disapproval. As the play progresses, misunderstandings ensue, particularly from the meddlesome servant Molly, who inadvertently threatens to expose Charles's secret marriage. The farce culminates with a series of comedic revelations and misunderstandings that challenge societal norms about education, responsibility, and love, ultimately leading to forgiveness and a humorous resolution.