The Mirror of Taste, and Dramatic Censor, Vol. I, No. 1, January 1810

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22488

Title

The Mirror of Taste, and Dramatic Censor, Vol. I, No. 1, January 1810

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Published in Philadelphia in 1810, The Mirror of Taste and Dramatic Censor aims to cultivate refined taste through dramatic criticism and literary miscellanies. This inaugural volume features a prospectus outlining the publication's mission to elevate public discourse, alongside reviews of Thomas Moore's Irish Melodies, defenses of pugilism, and a full text of the melodrama The Foundling of the Forest.

Summary up to 500 words

The Mirror of Taste, and Dramatic Censor, Vol. I, No. 1 (January 1810) presents itself as an essential periodical for the general public, aiming to promote general knowledge, refine taste, and correct abuses in public diversions. The editors argue that light periodical works are vital for cultivating a correct judgment and refined taste, serving as a bridge between deep erudition and the leisurely reading of the majority. The journal promises a regular record of Philadelphia theater, reviews of British periodicals, stage biography, and sporting intelligence. A significant portion of the volume is dedicated to Thomas Moore's 'A Selection of Irish Melodies.' The editors and reviewers offer extensive praise for the music and poetry, highlighting Moore's ability to capture the rapid fluctuation of Irish spirits, mixing gloom and levity. The text includes the full lyrics to the song 'Oh! think not my spirits are always as light,' which reflects on the transient nature of joy and the enduring value of friendship and love. London reviewers are quoted as lauding the elegance of the arrangements by Sir John Stevenson and the political and poetic merit of Moore's verses. The volume also features a spirited defense of boxing by William Windham. Windham contrasts the regulated, honorable nature of English pugilism with the unchecked violence and assassination prevalent in southern European customs. He argues that public exhibitions of manly exercises teach courage, magnanimity, and forgiveness, fostering a national character superior to that of other nations. The editors defend these 'gymnastic exercises' against parliamentary attempts to suppress them, asserting that they provide a necessary outlet for passions and prevent the unrestrained indulgence of revenge. The primary literary content is the melodrama 'The Foundling of the Forest.' The plot follows Eugenia, pursued by the villainous Baron Longueville who intends to murder her. She is aided by Florian, a mysterious foundling with a scarred hand that matches a mark on Eugenia's arm, revealing their shared parentage. As Longueville attempts to abduct Eugenia, a confrontation ensues involving a masked figure, Sanguine, and a sudden alarm at the castle. The villain is eventually defeated by a masked ally, Bertrand, who reveals himself as Eugenia's son. The Count De Valmont arrives, revealing himself as Florian's father and Eugenia's former husband. This resolution of family mysteries secures a happy ending for the protagonists, concluding with a celebration of domestic peace and divine providence.

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4.2/5

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Categories

• Drama
• Periodicals