Meaning: The quote "Captain is a good travelling name and so I take it" is from the play "The Recruiting Officer" by George Farquhar, an Irish playwright and actor who lived in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The play was first performed in 1706 and is a comedy set in the town of Shrewsbury during the War of the Spanish Succession.

The quote is spoken by the character of Captain Plume in Act 1, Scene 2 of the play. In this scene, Captain Plume, a recruiting officer, arrives in the town and decides to use the alias "Captain Brazen" in order to conceal his true identity and to create an air of mystery and authority. The quote reflects Plume's decision to adopt a new name as he begins his mission to recruit soldiers for the army.

The play "The Recruiting Officer" is a satirical exploration of the themes of love, identity, and social class. It offers a humorous and critical portrayal of the military recruitment process and the interactions between soldiers, civilians, and local authorities. Farquhar's use of wit and clever dialogue in the play is considered to be a significant contribution to the development of English comedy.

In the context of the quote, the idea of "Captain" being a good travelling name reflects the character's willingness to assume a new persona as he embarks on his journey. The use of the name "Captain" not only serves a practical purpose in concealing his true identity, but it also symbolizes the sense of adventure and authority that comes with the title.

Additionally, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection of the theme of disguise and role-playing that is prevalent throughout the play. Captain Plume's adoption of the alias "Captain Brazen" is just one example of the characters in the play assuming false identities or personas for various reasons, whether it be for personal gain, social status, or romantic pursuits.

George Farquhar's works, including "The Recruiting Officer," are known for their sharp wit, lively characters, and insightful commentary on the social and political issues of his time. Farquhar's ability to blend humor and social critique made him a popular playwright during the Restoration period and continues to be appreciated by audiences and scholars today.

"The Recruiting Officer" is also notable for its use of regional dialects and its depiction of the interactions between different social classes, providing a rich portrait of the society of the time. Farquhar's skillful handling of language and his ability to create vivid and memorable characters contribute to the enduring appeal of the play.

In conclusion, the quote "Captain is a good travelling name and so I take it" from George Farquhar's play "The Recruiting Officer" reflects the theme of disguise, the sense of adventure, and the social commentary that are characteristic of the play. Farquhar's work continues to be studied and performed, and the quote serves as a reminder of the wit and insight that he brought to his portrayal of 18th-century society.