Habit of Dorilas in the Tragedy of Merope

by Thomas Jefferys

The illustration “Habit of Dorilas” from Thomas Jefferys’ A Collection of the Dresses of Different Nations (1757) is an intriguing example of theatrical interpretations in the 18th century. The image portrays Dorilas, one of the characters in the play Merope written originally by Voltaire and then adapted by Aaron Hill. This dress combines classical Greek elements with a luxurious and elaborate Rococo style typical of the Georgian period.

Unlike recent historical costuming practices, the print shows “Stage Greek,” which does not aim for absolute archaeological precision but for an intriguing combination of “exotic” antiquity and modern luxury. Satin fabric and hunting horns were a kind of code language for the theater audience to understand that Dorilas was a nobleman in disguise—a significant element of the plot in Merope.