Tartuffe

Definition

Tartuffe is a comedic play written by Molière, which tells the story of a conman who deceives a wealthy man into believing he is a pious religious figure. This work highlights the themes of hypocrisy, deception, and the critique of religious pretense. As one of Molière's most significant contributions to French theatre, Tartuffe showcases the evolution of comedy during a time when the influence of Cardinal Richelieu and the Académie Française was shaping theatrical norms and conventions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tartuffe was first performed in 1664 and faced significant backlash from religious groups, leading to its temporary ban.
2. The character Tartuffe is often seen as a representation of religious hypocrisy, reflecting societal concerns about false piety during Molière's time.
3. The play is structured in five acts and employs various comedic techniques such as satire, irony, and farce to convey its message.
4. Molière's work significantly influenced the development of French comedy by incorporating social commentary into entertaining narratives.
5. Despite initial controversy, Tartuffe is now regarded as a classic of world literature and is frequently studied and performed globally.

Review Questions

• How does Tartuffe reflect the societal issues of its time, particularly regarding religion and hypocrisy?
  • Tartuffe reflects societal issues by showcasing the dangers of blind faith and gullibility in the face of religious pretense. The character Tartuffe embodies hypocrisy, deceiving Orgon into believing he is a righteous man while he manipulates for personal gain. This theme resonated during Molière's era when questions about true piety versus false appearances were prevalent, making the play both timely and relevant.
• In what ways did Cardinal Richelieu’s influence on French culture shape Molière’s approach in writing Tartuffe?
  • Cardinal Richelieu's establishment of the Académie Française created an environment where artistic standards were emphasized, encouraging playwrights like Molière to adhere to certain cultural norms while also pushing boundaries. The regulations around theatre led Molière to cleverly blend entertainment with moral lessons in Tartuffe, utilizing satire to critique society’s flaws without outright condemnation, thus appealing to both audiences and authorities.
• Evaluate the impact that Tartuffe has had on modern comedy and how it has influenced contemporary theatrical practices.
  • Tartuffe has had a lasting impact on modern comedy by establishing the foundation for satirical humor that critiques social norms and moral hypocrisy. Its structure and character development have influenced contemporary comedic writing, emphasizing the use of irony and sharp dialogue to reveal deeper truths about human nature. The play's exploration of deception continues to resonate today, inspiring countless adaptations and interpretations that reflect current societal issues while maintaining the essence of Molière's original work.

Related terms

Molière: A prominent French playwright and actor of the 17th century, known for his mastery of comedy and social satire.

Comédie-Française: A state theatre in France founded in 1680 that continues to perform classic French plays, including those of Molière.

Richelieu: Cardinal Richelieu was a powerful French statesman whose influence over French culture included the establishment of the Académie Française, promoting classical artistic standards.