“The Beggar’s Opera,” and the common question, whether it was pernicious° in its effects, having been introduced; — Johnson. “As to this matter, which has been very much contested,° I myself am of opinion, that more influence has been ascribed to ’The Beggar’s Opera,’ than it in reality ever had; for I do not believe that any man was ever made a rogue by being present at its representation. At the same time I do not deny that it may have some influence, by making the character of a rogue familiar, and in some degree pleasing.” Then collecting himself, as it were, to give a heavy stroke: “There is in it such a labefactation° of all principles as may be injurious to morality.” |
pernicious = damaging contested = debated labefactation = overthrow |
While he pronounced this response, we sat in a comical sort of restraint, smothering a laugh, which we were afraid might burst out. In his life of Gay, he has been still more decisive as to the inefficiency of “The Beggar’s Opera” in corrupting society. But I have ever thought somewhat differently; for, indeed, not only are the gaiety and heroism of a highwayman very captivating to a youthful imagination, but the arguments for adventurous depredation° are so plausible, the allusions so lively, and the contrasts with the ordinary and more painful modes of acquiring the property are so artfully° displayed, that it requires a cool and strong judgement to resist so imposing an aggregate: yet, I own, I should be very sorry to have “The Beggar’s Opera” suppressed; for there is in it so much of real London life, so much brilliant wit, and such a variety of airs, which, from early association of ideas, engage, soothe, and enliven the mind, that no performance which the theatre exhibits, delights me more. |
depredation = pillaging artfully = skillfully |