Choose an episode of a television "situation comedy," and compare its dialogue to that of Private Lives. In what ways do they differ? How is the humor in Coward's play achieved in contrast to the humor of the sitcom?

Coward is often compared to an earlier British dramatist known for his satiric wit, Oscar Wilde. Read Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest (1895) and compare and contrast it with Private Lives.

Assume that Victor and Sybil divorce their spouses after the play ends and marry each other. Write a brief description of their lives together Try to employ dialogue similar to that between Elyot and Amanda in Act n.

What do you think of Coward's view of marriage? What are your personal opinions on the subject? Support your arguments with examples of married couples you have known.