The London Prodigal

The London Prodigal is a city comedy play published in 1605, often attributed to William Shakespeare, though this attribution is considered spurious by most scholars. The narrative follows Matthew Flowerdale, a reckless young man whose poor choices cause distress for his father, who hopes to reform him. The play explores themes of vice, youth folly, and societal expectations surrounding marriage and reputation, culminating in a comedic yet poignant examination of family dynamics and personal growth.