Meaning: The quote "There is nothing on earth so easy as to forget, if a person chooses to set about it. I'm sure I have as much forgot your poor, dear uncle, as if he had never existed; and I thought it my duty to do so." is from the play "The School for Scandal" by Richard Brinsley Sheridan, a renowned Irish playwright and poet. This quote is spoken by the character Lady Sneerwell in Act 2, Scene 2 of the play. "The School for Scandal" is a comedy of manners that satirizes the behavior and customs of the upper classes in London society during the late 18th century.

In this particular quote, Lady Sneerwell is expressing her belief that it is easy for a person to forget something or someone if they make a conscious effort to do so. She uses the example of forgetting the existence of a poor, dear uncle to illustrate her point. Lady Sneerwell's statement reflects her cynical and manipulative nature, as she is known for spreading rumors and orchestrating scandals within the play.

The quote encapsulates the theme of deception and moral corruption that permeates "The School for Scandal." It highlights the characters' willingness to abandon moral principles and manipulate situations for their own gain. Lady Sneerwell's lack of remorse for forgetting her uncle and her assertion that she thought it her duty to do so underscore the play's exploration of the superficiality and hypocrisy of the upper-class society of the time.

Richard Brinsley Sheridan's "The School for Scandal" is celebrated for its witty dialogue, sharp social commentary, and memorable characters. The play's enduring relevance lies in its portrayal of human folly, the consequences of gossip and deceit, and the timeless themes of appearance versus reality and the corrupting influence of wealth and status.

Sheridan's skillful use of language and satire in "The School for Scandal" continues to captivate audiences and resonate with contemporary society. The quote serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of the play's themes and the complex nature of human behavior.

In conclusion, the quote "There is nothing on earth so easy as to forget, if a person chooses to set about it" from "The School for Scandal" by Richard Brinsley Sheridan encapsulates the play's exploration of deception, moral corruption, and the superficiality of high society. It reflects the cynical and manipulative nature of the character Lady Sneerwell and underscores the enduring relevance of the play's themes. Sheridan's insightful satire and sharp social commentary continue to make "The School for Scandal" a timeless and thought-provoking work that offers valuable insights into human nature and societal values.