Molière

Definition

Molière, born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, was a French playwright and actor who is considered one of the greatest masters of comedy in Western literature. His works reflect a deep understanding of human nature and often critique the social norms of his time, particularly through satire and humor. Molière's influence on the evolution of French comedy is profound, and he is often juxtaposed with contemporaries like Corneille and Racine, as he brought a unique blend of wit and moral insight to the stage during the Baroque period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Molière founded the 'Illustre Théâtre' in 1643, which marked the beginning of his professional career in theater.
2. His plays often tackled themes of hypocrisy, social pretension, and the absurdities of human behavior, with works like 'Tartuffe' and 'The Misanthrope' standing out as prime examples.
3. Molière was known for using stock characters and scenarios from commedia dell'arte, adapting them into unique plots that resonated with French audiences.
4. He faced significant opposition from religious groups, especially with 'Tartuffe', which was initially banned due to its critique of religious hypocrisy.
5. Molière's legacy continues to influence modern comedy, with his techniques and themes being relevant to contemporary storytelling and performance.

Review Questions

• How did Molière's work reflect the social norms and issues of his time?
  • Molière's plays frequently critiqued the societal norms of 17th-century France, particularly regarding hypocrisy, class structures, and morality. By using satire as a lens, he exposed the ridiculousness of certain behaviors and attitudes prevalent in society. For instance, in 'Tartuffe', he tackled religious hypocrisy by showcasing a conman posing as a pious figure, highlighting the dangers of blind faith.
• In what ways did Molière's comedic style differ from the serious tones found in the tragedies of Corneille and Racine?
  • Molière's comedic style was characterized by its focus on everyday human experiences and flaws, using humor to engage audiences with relatable situations. Unlike Corneille and Racine, who often delved into tragic themes with grand heroic narratives, Molière employed wit and satire to reveal the absurdities of life. His comedies reflected real societal issues while allowing audiences to laugh at their own follies.
• Evaluate Molière's contribution to the evolution of French comedy within the broader context of Baroque theatre.
  • Molière's contribution to French comedy during the Baroque period was pivotal as he blended elements of farce with intellectual satire, paving the way for modern comedic forms. His ability to address serious social critiques within entertaining frameworks transformed audience expectations for theatrical performance. By establishing a distinct comedic voice that embraced both laughter and moral insight, Molière influenced subsequent generations of playwrights and left an enduring mark on European theatre.

Related terms

Commedia dell'arte: An early form of Italian theater characterized by masked 'types' and improvisational performance, which heavily influenced Molière's comedic style.

Neoclassicism: An artistic movement that emerged in the 17th century, emphasizing adherence to classical ideals in art and literature, which Molière both challenged and contributed to through his comedic works.

Satire: A literary technique used by Molière to criticize and expose the follies and vices of society, often through humor and exaggeration.