Sheridan, Richard Brinsley

Richard Brinsley (1751-1816), an English playwriter of note. He was born in Dublin and died in London. He came of a family known for generations as speakers and actors. He was educated for the law, but gave it up for literature. He became a theater manager in London and wrote several noted plays, the best of which are The Rivals and The School for Scandal. The latter is recommended to readers desiring a passing acquaintance with Sheridan. Later in life he entered Parliament, where he distinguished himself as a brilliant speaker. He was associated with Burke in the impeachment of Warren Hastings. He rose to be secretary of the treasury. See Drama; Theater; Burke; Edmund