Give an account of the casket episode in “She Stoops to Conquer.” 

The casket episode is an important part of the subplot in “She Stoops to Conquer” (1773). It is related to the love story of Hastings and Constance. This part of the play brings humour, confusion, and surprise. It also helps us understand the real nature of some characters like Mrs. Hardcastle, Constance, Tony, and Hastings.

Plan to Elope: Hastings and Constance love each other. Hastings wants to run away with her. But Constance does not want to go without her casket of jewels. These jewels are her property. Her aunt, Mrs. Hardcastle, keeps them. She refuses to give this and says,

“Indeed, Constance, you amaze me. Such a girl as you want jewels! It will be time enough for jewels, my dear, twenty years hence, when your beauty begins to want repairs.”