What was characteristic of the distance portrayed in the Comedy of Manners?

The Comedy of Manners is known for its satirical examination of the social mores and behaviors of a specific class, often the upper or wealthy classes. A defining characteristic of this genre is the focus on the tension between individual desires or motives and the expectations of social politeness or decorum.

In these comedies, characters frequently find themselves in situations where their personal intentions conflict with societal norms, leading to humorous misunderstandings and complications. This dynamic highlights the disparity between what individuals truly want and what is deemed acceptable in their social circles. Through witty dialogue and intricate plots, playwrights explored how characters navigate these social intricacies, ultimately revealing the absurdities of rigid social conventions.

The other options, while related to themes in theatre, do not capture the essence of the Comedy of Manners. For example, the idea of distance between different social classes may be present but is not the primary focus of the genre. Similarly, the relationship between actors and their roles, as well as the distinction between tragedy and comedy, offer insight into broader theatrical practices rather than specifically defining the distance portrayed in this type of comedy.