ACT THE FIRST.

In the first act of “She Stoops to Conquer,” the scene opens in a chamber of an old-fashioned house, where Mrs. Hardcastle laments their dull, rural life and lack of fashionable society, unlike their neighbors who venture to London for “polishing.” Mr. Hardcastle, on the other hand, cherishes the old ways, including his old wife. Their conversation shifts to their son, Tony Lumpkin, whom Mrs. Hardcastle dotes on despite his lack of scholarly ambition and penchant for mischief. Mr. Hardcastle criticizes Tony’s antics and lack of interest in education, while Mrs. Hardcastle defends him, attributing his behavior to humor and ill health.

The plot thickens when Mr. Hardcastle discusses with his daughter, Miss Hardcastle, his plans for her marriage to Mr. Marlow, a young man of good standing whom he has chosen for her. Although initially resistant to the idea of an arranged marriage, Miss Hardcastle warms up to the prospect of marrying Marlow after hearing of his virtues but is disheartened again to learn of his reserved nature.

Meanwhile, Tony Lumpkin is found at an alehouse, reveling with the locals, clearly indicating his preference for low company and simple pleasures over the refinements his mother wishes for him. His mischief continues as he misdirects Marlow and Hastings, who are seeking Mr. Hardcastle’s house, sending them on a convoluted path that ensures they won’t reach their destination.

Miss Hardcastle and her cousin Miss Neville discuss their potential suitors with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Miss Neville is being courted by Mrs. Hardcastle for Tony, but her heart is set on Mr. Hastings, highlighting the young women’s desire to control their own romantic destinies, despite family pressures.

The act concludes with Tony deceiving Marlow and Hastings into believing they are far from their destination, encouraging them to stay at an inn which is, in reality, the Hardcastle’s home. This setup initiates a comedy of errors, with Tony’s trickery foreshadowing the misunderstandings and mistaken identities that will drive the play’s humor and romantic entanglements.