Rule a Wife, and Have a Wife: Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (3 of 10)

Rule a Wife, and Have a Wife is a late Jacobean comedy written by John Fletcher, first performed in 1624 and published in 1640. The play explores themes of love, marriage, and the complexities of gender dynamics through the comedic entanglements of two couples who marry under false pretenses. Notable for being Fletcher's last solo work, it was well-received and adapted during the Restoration era, reflecting the evolving societal roles of men and women. The title alludes to the challenges of managing a strong-willed spouse, encapsulating the play's humorous take on marital relationships.