Tartuffe

Definition

Tartuffe is a comedic play written by Molière, which satirizes religious hypocrisy through the character of Tartuffe, a conman posing as a pious man. The play's central conflict arises from Tartuffe's manipulation of Orgon, a wealthy man who becomes blinded by his supposed piety. This work is significant in the context of satire in literature, showcasing how comedic elements can expose and critique societal flaws, particularly concerning faith and morality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tartuffe was first performed in 1664 but faced significant backlash from religious authorities due to its critical portrayal of religious hypocrisy.
2. The character of Tartuffe embodies the archetype of the 'false believer,' using deceit and manipulation to exploit Orgon's trust.
3. Molière's use of comedic elements in Tartuffe allows the audience to engage with serious themes while also enjoying the humor of the situation.
4. The play was banned at one point after its release, showcasing the tension between art and censorship regarding religious themes during Molière's time.
5. Tartuffe remains relevant today as it continues to be performed worldwide, illustrating ongoing issues related to faith and integrity in society.

Review Questions

• How does Molière use humor in Tartuffe to critique societal norms regarding religion?
  • Molière employs humor through exaggerated characters and absurd situations to highlight the ridiculousness of blind faith and hypocrisy. By making Tartuffe a comically deceitful figure, he showcases how gullibility can lead to manipulation. This blend of comedy and critique allows audiences to reflect on serious issues while being entertained, making the message more impactful.
• Discuss the significance of the character Tartuffe in relation to themes of deception and morality within the play.
  • Tartuffe serves as a pivotal figure representing deception and moral corruption. His ability to manipulate Orgon illustrates how appearances can be misleading and how easily one's trust can be exploited. This character challenges the audience to consider their own perceptions of morality and faith, emphasizing that true piety must be accompanied by genuine behavior rather than mere appearance.
• Evaluate the impact of censorship on Molière's work, particularly focusing on how it influenced his writing of Tartuffe and its reception.
  • Censorship had a profound impact on Molière's writing, especially with Tartuffe, which faced opposition from religious leaders who perceived it as an attack on genuine faith. This tension forced Molière to navigate carefully between critique and compliance with societal expectations. The initial ban on the play not only reflected the vulnerability of artistic expression but also highlighted how powerful critiques could incite controversy, ultimately enhancing its legacy as a bold examination of hypocrisy in religion.

Related terms

Hypocrisy: The act of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one's own behavior does not conform; a central theme in Tartuffe.

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals or society, as seen in Tartuffe's depiction of false piety.

Molière: A French playwright and actor, known for his comedies that often highlighted social issues and human follies, including his famous work Tartuffe.