William Congreve was a prominent English playwright and poet during the late 17th century. Congreve is considered to be very influential in his comedy of manners and use of satirical wit. Congreve is wrote some of the most famous plays of the Restoration period including The Way of the World, Love for Love, and The Mourning Bride.

The Way of the World is considered to be Congreve's greatest work. The comedy was first premiered in 1700 an is still performed occasionally today. The action centers around two lovers who must go to great lengths to be married.