"The Relapse" is a comedic play written by John Vanbrugh in 1696. It serves as a sequel to his earlier work, The Provoked Wife, and follows the character Heartfree, who struggles with the temptations of love and fidelity. The play explores themes of romance, deception, and the complexities of relationships in a humorous manner. The story features a cast of colorful characters, including the witty Mr. Brisk and the scheming Lady Wishfort. Through a series of misunderstandings and clever dialogue, the characters navigate their desires and intentions, ultimately leading to a comedic resolution that highlights the folly of human behavior.