What is a 'Rake' in Bridgerton? The Regency-Era Term Explained
Bridgerton fans have been left intrigued and somewhat confused by the frequent use of the term 'rake' in the hit Netflix period drama. As season four, part one graces our screens, this historical slang has sparked curiosity among viewers, particularly in relation to characters like Benedict Bridgerton.
The Historical Meaning of a Rake
In the context of Bridgerton, a 'rake' is a slang term derived from 'rakehell', referring to a womaniser or libertine. These figures were typically upper-class men in Regency-era England who engaged in promiscuous and immoral behaviour.
Their lifestyles often involved:
- Frittering away inheritances and fortunes through drinking and gambling.
- Soliciting prostitutes and accumulating hefty debts.
- Indulging in lavish, decadent pursuits without facing social censure due to their privileged position.
The term dates back to the mid-16th century but became a distinct cultural archetype in the 18th century. Similar terms include cad, libertine, and debauché.
Rakes in the World of Bridgerton
In Bridgerton, the portrayal of rakes is somewhat idealised, focusing more on their romantic and sexual escapades rather than the gambling and drinking aspects. Benedict Bridgerton, played by Luke Thompson, is a prime example, having been labelled a rake by his family.
His various romances over the series include flings with characters like Madame Genevieve Delacroix and Lady Tilley Arnold. However, the show embraces the romantic trope that reformed rakes make the best husbands, as seen with characters like the Duke of Hastings and Anthony Bridgerton, who abandon their promiscuous ways for love.
Female Rakes and Future Storylines
Interestingly, Bridgerton introduces the concept of a female rake with Michaela Stirling, suggesting that such behaviours were generally male-dominated. Female rakes in the show enjoy sexual freedoms without the associated vices like gambling or violence.
Looking ahead, future seasons may explore Michaela's path to reformation, potentially through her relationship with Francesca Bridgerton. Meanwhile, Eloise Bridgerton's storyline is expected to diverge from this trope, as her romance with Phillip Crane in the novels does not follow the reformed rake narrative.
As Bridgerton continues to captivate audiences, the term 'rake' remains a key element of its historical charm and character development, blending Regency-era authenticity with modern romantic ideals.
