As with most Gilbert and Sullivan productions, this show is not as straightforward as it first appears. It uses the form of a comedy melodrama to question what we mean by Good and Evil. The Good characters are all good in rather unpleasant ways or for bad reasons, whereas the Bad Baronet is evil for relatively noble reasons. For instance he uses the results of his evil deeds to support charitable institutions. The following plot summary should be read with these thoughts in mind.
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Thus, the nuptials of Rose and Robin are rudely interrupted by Sir Despard Murgatroyd, who reveals that Robin Oakapple is none other than his elder brother, Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd. As a result, Robin/Ruthven is the direct inheritor of the family curse, which Despard until now had been forced to carry out by Ruthven's abdication of his duties. Rose cannot marry a Bad Baronet, of course, so defaults to Dick; Ruthven is excoriated out of the town.Plot
Act I
The chorus of Professional Bridesmaids speculate on what their next opportunity for a wedding will be. Rose Maybud, a pretty young lady never without her book of etiquette, is being wooed by country youth Robin Oakapple. However, he has a rival for her affections, the sailor Richard, Robin's foster-brother. Deciding that etiquette permits it, Rose finally accepts Robin's suit. Richard, following the dictates of his heart, promptly goes to reveal a secret to the local Bad Baronet, Sir Despard Murgatroyd, who labours under a family curse that compels him to commit a crime every day.