Molière

Definition

Molière was a prominent French playwright and actor of the 17th century, widely regarded as one of the greatest masters of comedy in Western literature. His works often satirized the social norms and pretentiousness of his time, utilizing elements of classical forms while also paving the way for new theatrical styles. Molière's contributions significantly influenced the Neoclassical movement and the revival of Classical forms in theatre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Molière was born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin in 1622 and adopted the stage name Molière to pursue his career in theater.
2. His most famous works include 'Tartuffe', 'The Misanthrope', and 'The Imaginary Invalid', which remain widely performed today.
3. Molière often faced backlash from religious groups due to the controversial themes in his plays, particularly in 'Tartuffe', which critiques hypocrisy within religion.
4. He was a key figure in the establishment of French comedy as a respected genre, elevating it alongside tragedy in the Neoclassical tradition.
5. Molière's influence extends beyond his time, shaping modern comedic writing and theatrical practices, making him a foundational figure in Western literature.

Review Questions

• How did Molière's use of satire reflect the social issues of his time?
  • Molière's satirical approach allowed him to address social issues such as hypocrisy, pretentiousness, and the flaws of contemporary society. Through sharp humor and exaggerated characters, he critiqued various aspects of 17th-century French life, including religion and class structure. This reflective style resonated with audiences, making his plays not only entertaining but also thought-provoking commentaries on human behavior.
• In what ways did Molière contribute to the Neoclassical movement while also challenging its conventions?
  • Molière contributed significantly to the Neoclassical movement by adhering to its principles of structure, unity, and moral lessons in his comedies. However, he also challenged these conventions by incorporating elements of farce and improvisation, blending classical forms with more spontaneous humor. This approach expanded the boundaries of Neoclassical theatre, allowing for greater emotional depth and character development, which distinguished his works from traditional forms.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Molière on modern theater and comedy.
  • Molière's influence on modern theater and comedy is profound and multifaceted. His innovative techniques in character development and plot construction set new standards for comedic writing that continue to be emulated today. Furthermore, his ability to blend humor with social critique paved the way for future playwrights to explore complex themes through comedy. This legacy is evident in contemporary theater, where elements of satire and farce remain vital components of comedic storytelling.

Related terms

Comédie-Française: The Comédie-Française is one of the oldest and most prestigious theater companies in France, founded in 1680, known for performing Molière's works and continuing his legacy in French theater.

Farce: Farce is a comedic genre that uses exaggerated characters and improbable situations to entertain, a style that Molière often employed in his plays to critique societal flaws.

Satire: Satire is a literary technique used to expose and criticize foolishness or corruption through humor, irony, or ridicule, which was a hallmark of Molière's writing.