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Classic French Fiction and Plays of Jean-Baptiste Poquelin (Molière): This collection features the timeless works of Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known by his stage name Molière, one of the greatest playwrights of French literature. The anthology includes "The School for Husbands", "The Learned Women", "The Middle Class Gentleman", and "Tartuffe or The Hypocrite". Through these classic plays, readers can experience Molière's comedic genius, his sharp wit, and his insightful critique of societal norms and human behavior. Key Aspects of the Play "The School for Husbands": Comedic Exploration of Marriage: "The School for Husbands" satirizes the foibles and follies of husbands who try to control and mold their wives. Humorous Character Interactions: Molière's play features amusing exchanges between characters, bringing out the comedic elements of the story. Reflection on Social Norms: The play offers insights into the societal expectations and gender roles of the time, prompting contemplation on relationships. Key Aspects of the Play "The Learned Women": Gender Role Reversals: "The Learned Women" humorously portrays women who aspire to be scholars and intellectuals, challenging traditional gender norms. Intellectualism and Comedy: Molière skillfully weaves intellectual pursuits and comedic situations, making the play both thought-provoking and entertaining. Critique of Pretentiousness: The play critiques pretentiousness and the dangers of excessive pride in one's knowledge. Key Aspects of the Play "The Middle Class Gentleman": Social Climbing and Identity: "The Middle Class Gentleman" humorously portrays a bourgeois man's attempt to adopt aristocratic manners and identity. Satirical Exploration of Social Aspirations: Molière's play satirizes the desire for social elevation and the comical situations that arise from the protagonist's efforts. Cultural Critique: The play offers a critique of the social aspirations of the rising middle class in the context of 17th-century French society. Key Aspects of the Play "Tartuffe or The Hypocrite": Religious Hypocrisy: "Tartuffe" is a biting satire that exposes the hypocrisy of religious figures, particularly the character of Tartuffe. Controversial Themes: The play addresses sensitive themes of religious hypocrisy, deception, and morality, sparking controversy during its time. Powerful Character of Tartuffe: The character of Tartuffe remains one of Molière's most memorable creations, embodying duplicity and deceit. Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, better known as Molière, was a prolific playwright and actor in 17th-century France. His plays, known for their wit and satire, have left a significant impact on the world of theatre and literature, and his legacy continues to be celebrated for its insightful commentary on human nature and society.

A comedy featuring Tartuffe, Elmire, and Orgon.

Enter the world of deceit and deception with Jean-Baptiste Poquelin's timeless classic, "Tartuffe or The Hypocrite." Prepare to be enthralled by Moliere's biting satire and razor-sharp wit as he exposes the hypocrisy lurking beneath the facade of piety. Follow the uproarious misadventures of Tartuffe, the cunning imposter who infiltrates the household of Orgon, a wealthy Parisian. Through Moliere's masterful dialogue and clever plotting, readers are treated to a deliciously entertaining tale of manipulation, intrigue, and moral ambiguity. Themes of gullibility, deception, and the dangers of blind faith permeate "Tartuffe or The Hypocrite," offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of human folly and the perils of misplaced trust. Moliere's incisive critique of religious hypocrisy and moral corruption remains as relevant today as it was when the play was first performed in 1664. Characterized by its sharp wit and biting humor, "Tartuffe or The Hypocrite" captivates readers with its colorful characters and clever wordplay. Moliere's scathing satire spares no one, as he exposes the absurdity of human behavior and the folly of blind adherence to religious dogma. Since its premiere, "Tartuffe or The Hypocrite" has been celebrated for its bold social commentary and enduring relevance. Moliere's timeless exploration of hypocrisy and moral relativism continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a staple of the theatrical canon. As you immerse yourself in the world of "Tartuffe or The Hypocrite," you'll find yourself laughing out loud at the absurdity of human folly and marveling at Moliere's keen insight into the human condition. The play's timeless themes and unforgettable characters ensure that it remains as fresh and entertaining today as it was over three centuries ago. Don't miss your chance to experience the brilliance of Moliere's "Tartuffe or The Hypocrite." Let this timeless classic transport you to a world of wit, satire, and moral ambiguity, where nothing is quite as it seems and laughter reigns supreme. Grab your copy now and discover why Moliere is considered one of the greatest playwrights of all time.

In this adaptation by Rolf McEwen of the famous comedy by Moliere, a gentleman of Paris by the name of Jourdain attempts to establish himself as an impressive member of the upper classes. He hires people to instruct him in those arts and habits possessed by wealthy and sophisticated members of society. He employs a Music Master to teach him music, a Dancing Master to teach dance, a Fencing Master to instruct him in swordsmanship, and a Master of Philosophy to tutor him in the academic refinements of higher thought. He obtains the finest wardrobe from his Master Tailor and the Tailor's Apprentice. He is often dressed in displays of poor taste.Madame Jourdain is a wise and witty wife who tries to enlighten her husband regarding his obsessions. Jourdain's elegant daughter Lucile has fallen in love with the passionate and temperamental Cleonte, who has a caddy servant Covielle that feeds a fire of anger and jealousy when the girls give the two fellows insufficient attention.Jourdain decides to spice his life up with the help of a deceitful friend Dorante whose title of Count holds Jourdain in awe. Dorante arranges for an attractive lady named Dorimene to dine with him at his home while his wife is ushered away on other business. A maid-servant Nicole assists Madame Jourdain in spying out improper activities about the house. The result is confusion and sheer madness.

The Imaginary Invalid (French: Le malade imaginaire) is a three-act comédie-ballet by Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known by his stage name Molière, a French playwright and actor who is considered to be one of the greatest masters of comedy in Western literature. The acts of the play follow, interrupted by interludes of music and dancing. The play is generally classified as a comedy of manners. Throughout the play, the author brilliantly blends satire and farce in a fast-moving plot that ridicules doctors.

Welcome to the delightful world of "The Learned Women" by Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, better known as Molière, a comedic masterpiece that satirizes the intellectual pretensions of the learned elite. Enter the bustling household of Chrysale, a respectable bourgeois gentleman whose peace and tranquility are disrupted by the intellectual ambitions of his wife, Philaminte, and her sister, Armande. As they immerse themselves in scholarly pursuits and feminist rhetoric, chaos ensues, threatening to upend the traditional order of society. With Molière's signature wit and irreverence, "The Learned Women" skewers the pomposity of the intellectual elite, exposing the absurdity of their lofty aspirations and misplaced priorities. Through uproarious dialogue and farcical situations, Molière invites readers to laugh at the folly of human pretension and hubris. "The Learned Women" is more than just a comedy—it's a sharp critique of the societal norms and gender roles that constrain individuals and stifle creativity. Molière's incisive commentary on education, marriage, and gender equality remains as relevant today as it was when the play was first performed in 1672. The overall tone of the play is one of lighthearted satire and comedic revelry, as Molière lampoons the absurdities of his characters with affectionate mockery. Through his colorful cast of characters and sparkling dialogue, he offers a window into the foibles and follies of human nature. Since its premiere, "The Learned Women" has delighted audiences with its sharp humor and timeless insights. Its exploration of intellectual vanity and societal norms continues to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved classic of French literature. Whether you're a fan of comedy, satire, or simply enjoy a good laugh, "The Learned Women" promises an evening of uproarious entertainment and thought-provoking commentary. Prepare to be entertained, enlightened, and ultimately charmed by Molière's comedic genius. Experience the hilarity of "The Learned Women" today. Order your copy now and join the legions of readers who have been captivated by Molière's timeless wit and irreverent humor.

The Learned Women (Les Femmes Savantes) is a comedy by Molière in five acts. A satire on academic pretention, female education, and préciosité (French for preciousness), it was one of his most popular comedies. It premiered at the Théâtre du Palais-Royal on 11 March 1672.Two young people, Henriette and Clitandre, are in love, but in order to marry, they must overcome an obstacle: the attitude of Henriette's family. Her sensible father and uncle are in favour of the marriage; but unfortunately her father is under the thumb of his wife, Philaminte. And Philaminte, supported by Henriette's aunt and sister, wishes her to marry Trissotin, a "scholar" and mediocre poet with lofty aspirations, who has these three women completely in his thrall. For these three ladies are "learned"; their obsession in life is learning and culture of the most pretentious kind, and Trissotin is their special protégé and the fixture of their literary salon.

Molière combined all the traditional elements of comedy - wit, slapstick, spectacle and satire - to create richly sophisticated and enduringly popular dramas. The Miser is the story of Harpagon, a mean-spirited old man who becomes obsessed with making money out of the marriage of his children, while The Hypochondriac, another study in obsession, is a brilliant satire on the medical profession. The School for Wives, in which an ageing domestic tyrant is foiled in his plans to marry his young ward, provoked such an outcry that Molière followed it with The School for Wives Criticized - a witty retort to those who disapproved of the play's supposed immorality. And while Don Juan is the darkest and most tragic of all the plays in this collection, it still mocks the soullessness of the skinflint with scathing irony.

The Middle Class Gentleman by Jean-Baptiste Poquelin (Moliere): Step into the world of comedy and satire with "The Middle Class Gentleman" by Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, better known as Moliere. This delightful play follows the amusing misadventures of Monsieur Jourdain, a wealthy but unrefined bourgeois who aspires to climb the social ladder and be recognized as a gentleman. Moliere's witty and insightful portrayal of societal pretensions and foibles makes "The Middle Class Gentleman" a timeless comedy that continues to entertain and resonate with audiences. Key Aspects of the Book "The Middle Class Gentleman": Satirical Comedy: Moliere's play employs satire and humor to critique the superficial aspirations of the middle class and their pursuit of social status. Social Commentary: "The Middle Class Gentleman" offers a keen observation of human behavior and the desire for social acceptance, making it a thought-provoking and relevant comedy. Theatrical Legacy: Moliere's plays, including "The Middle Class Gentleman," are revered for their comedic brilliance and their enduring impact on the world of theater. Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known by his stage name Moliere, was a celebrated French playwright and actor who revolutionized 17th-century theater. Born in the early 17th century, Moliere's comic genius and astute social observations set the stage for the evolution of comedy and satire in the dramatic arts. In "The Middle Class Gentleman," Moliere's theatrical finesse shines through, engaging audiences with its humorous take on social aspirations. His profound influence on theater and comedy continues to inspire playwrights and entertain theatergoers worldwide.

Jean Baptiste Poquelin, better known by his stage name of Moliere, stands without a rival at the head of French comedy. Born at Paris in January, 1622, where his father held a position in the royal household, he was educated at the Jesuit College de Clermont, and for some time studied law, which he soon abandoned for the stage. His life was spent in Paris and in the provinces, acting, directing performances, managing theaters, and writing plays.