Molière was a French playwright and actor who is considered one of the greatest masters of comedy in Western literature His comedies are among the greatest works of theatre of all time and are still widely performed around the world today. He was a master at creating characters and situations that were both amusing and insightful, often addressing issues of hypocrisy and religious moralism with a subtle but sharp wit.
The five best examples of Molière’s works are: The Misanthrope, Tartuffe, The School for Wives, The Imaginary Invalid, and The Bourgeois Gentleman.
The Misanthrope is Molière’s most famous work, and it is a brilliant satire of French aristocratic society. The title character, Alceste, is a misanthropic and cynical figure who decries the false hypocrisy and excessive politeness of the courtiers and their circle. This play is a direct criticism of the society of the time, but it is also a timeless look at the way people try to pretend to be something that they are not.
Tartuffe is a classic example of Molière’s clever use of satire. The title character is a religious hypocrite who manipulates the main character’s household. Molière uses this lighthearted comedy to critique organized religion and show how easy it can be to be fooled by false piety.
The School for Wives is one of Molière’s most delightful plays. It is a witty examination of the education of young women and the expectations placed on them by society. The play follows a man named Arnolphe who is determined to keep his young ward, Agnes, from ever marrying anyone but himself. This hilarious play is still relevant today, as it addresses the issue of gender roles and expectations in society.
The Imaginary Invalid is a farce about a hypochondriac. Molière’s mastery of the genre is on full display in this play as he uses ridiculous humour to poke fun at the quackery of the time. The characters are endearingly ridiculous, and it is impossible not to laugh at their antics.
The Bourgeois Gentleman is a comedy of manners that follows the hapless Mr. Jourdain, a wealthy but not particularly bright man, in his attempt to become a gentleman. This play is a delightful mix of physical comedy and farce and is a clever satire of social climbing and ostentatiousness.
Molière’s work is timeless and still relevant today. These five examples are only a fraction of his genius, but they represent some of the best of his work. His sharp wit and brilliant use of satire will continue to entertain and enlighten audiences for generations to come.