Molière

Definition

Molière, born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, was a renowned French playwright and actor in the 17th century, celebrated for his contributions to the development of comedic theater. His works often satirized the social norms and hypocrisies of his time, reflecting the complexities of human behavior and the follies of society. Molière's ability to blend humor with sharp social commentary has made him a key figure in the Baroque era of literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Molière's most famous plays include 'Tartuffe,' 'The Misanthrope,' and 'Don Juan,' each showcasing his distinctive comedic style and critique of society.
2. He often acted in his own plays and founded the Illustre Théâtre, which later evolved into the Comédie-Française, France's first state theater.
3. Molière's work faced censorship and controversy; for instance, 'Tartuffe' was banned initially due to its critique of religious hypocrisy.
4. His plays incorporate elements of farce, wit, and character-driven humor that highlight the absurdities of human behavior.
5. Molière's influence extended beyond his lifetime; he is considered one of the greatest masters of comedy in Western literature and has inspired countless writers and playwrights.

Review Questions

• How did Molière's works reflect the social issues of his time, and what techniques did he use to convey his messages?
  • Molière's plays often tackled social issues such as hypocrisy, greed, and the shortcomings of various social classes. He used satire as a primary technique to expose the absurdities and contradictions within society. Through exaggerated characters and humorous situations, Molière effectively critiqued societal norms while entertaining audiences, making his work relevant both then and now.
• Discuss the significance of Commedia dell'arte in shaping Molière's style of comedy and how it differs from his contemporaries.
  • Commedia dell'arte significantly influenced Molière's comedic approach by introducing stock characters and improvisational elements that became hallmarks of his plays. Unlike many of his contemporaries who adhered strictly to classical forms, Molière blended structured narratives with spontaneous dialogue and character-driven humor. This innovation allowed him to create relatable scenarios that resonated with audiences while maintaining a critical perspective on societal issues.
• Evaluate Molière's legacy in the context of Baroque literature and how his works continue to influence modern theater.
  • Molière's legacy is profound within Baroque literature as he not only established comedic theater as a serious art form but also set the standard for character-driven narratives infused with social critique. His masterful blend of humor and commentary has paved the way for modern playwrights who explore similar themes. Today, Molière's works remain integral to theatrical repertoires worldwide, illustrating the timeless relevance of his insights into human nature and society.

Related terms

Commedia dell'arte: An early form of Italian theater characterized by masked 'stock' characters and improvised performances, influencing many European playwrights, including Molière.

Satire: A literary technique used to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms through humor, irony, or exaggeration, prominently featured in Molière's works.

French Classical Theater: A style of theatrical production in 17th-century France that emphasized strict adherence to classical unities, focusing on themes of morality and human nature, with Molière as a pivotal figure.