The Merry Wives Of Windsor

Mistress Ford and Mistress Page cleverly outwit Sir John Falstaff, who seeks their affection while being married. Set in Windsor, the play subverts the typical "citizen comedy" trope, where knights exploit their status to seduce local wives. Instead, the Merry Wives take control, turning Falstaff's advances into a source of amusement and humiliation for him. This dynamic positions Falstaff as a comedic "hero," showcasing Shakespeare's talent for blending humor with social commentary on marriage and desire.