Inkle and Yarico: An opera, in three acts (ePub)

George Colman the Elder (1732-1794) was an English dramatist and essayist who made significant contributions to the landscape of 18th-century literature. Colman's theatrical works are marked by wit and social commentary, reflective of the Georgian era's fondness for satirical and didactic expressions. One of his more famous works is 'Inkle and Yarico: An Opera, in Three Acts' which was first performed in 1787. This opera holds a unique place in literary history, highlighting issues of slavery and colonialism through the story of a merchant named Inkle and an Amerindian woman named Yarico. It is believed that Colman's narrative was based on a popular literary anecdote of that time, which in itself was a critique of European expansionism and its consequent moral ramifications. Colman's oeuvre includes a blend of opera, comedy, and tragedy, showcasing his versatile engagement with themes of love, social norms, and political satire. His literary style was marked by eloquence and a judicious use of the English language, reflective of his education at Westminster School and Christ Church, Oxford. Colman's influence extended beyond his own writings; as a theatre manager of Covent Garden and the Haymarket, he played a pivotal role in shaping the theatrical tastes of his time, and his legacy persists in the continued study and performance of his works.