Beggar's Opera, written by John Gay is the first ballad opera in the English language. It is interesting to note that it was also the most popular work of English theater during the eighteenth century. This is interesting because Gay used his opera to satirize the society of his time. This satirization however is not derogatory or moralistic enough to give much offense. Rather the opera was written with enjoyment as its primary aim. This is also in keeping with Gay's view of the world. His art was created for enjoyment, while it also struck a deeper chord. Through metaphor and simile John Gay gives the audience an experience never to forget.

In terms of metaphor, Gay's entire cast of characters play the role of metaphor depicting social ills of the time. The subtitle of Gay's opera was "A Newgate Pastoral." This is however deliberately misleading for satiric effect. Instead...
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