Richard Sheridan, born on October 30, 1751, in Dublin, was an influential Irish playwright and politician known for works like 'The School for Scandal' and 'The Rivals', which satirize social manners and morality. Oliver Goldsmith, born on November 10, 1730, was a renowned poet and novelist whose notable works include 'The Vicar of Wakefield' and 'She Stoops to Conquer', highlighting themes of appearance versus reality. Both authors significantly impacted English literature through their comedic and critical observations of society.