Molière

Definition

Molière was a prominent French playwright and actor in the 17th century, known for his contributions to the development of French Neoclassical theatre. He is celebrated for his comedic plays that explore themes of hypocrisy, love, and human behavior, often blending satire with sharp social commentary. Molière's works have had a lasting impact on theatrical traditions, particularly through his incorporation of elements from Commedia dell'Arte, enriching the landscape of European drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Molière was born as Jean-Baptiste Poquelin in 1622 and adopted his stage name to honor his father's profession as a furniture dealer.
2. His most famous works include 'Tartuffe,' 'The Misanthrope,' and 'Don Juan,' each of which highlights the follies and pretensions of society.
3. Molière often performed in his own plays and founded his own theatre troupe, which became instrumental in presenting his works to the public.
4. His approach combined elements of farce with serious themes, effectively making audiences laugh while also prompting them to reflect on their own behaviors.
5. Molière's legacy continues to influence modern theatre, with many of his plays still being performed and adapted around the world today.

Review Questions

• How did Molière's use of satire reflect the societal issues of his time?
  • Molière's use of satire was a direct reflection of the societal issues he observed in 17th-century France, including hypocrisy within the church and aristocracy. Through sharp wit and humor in plays like 'Tartuffe,' he criticized the pretense and moral failings of individuals while entertaining audiences. This blend of comedy and social commentary allowed him to address serious topics without facing direct censorship, making his work both impactful and relatable.
• In what ways did Commedia dell'Arte influence Molière's writing style and character development?
  • Commedia dell'Arte had a significant influence on Molière's writing style, particularly in his use of stock characters and improvisational techniques. The archetypes from Commedia, such as the clever servant or the foolish old man, found their way into Molière's works, enabling him to create relatable and memorable characters. This influence allowed Molière to blend humor with deeper emotional truths while maintaining a dynamic stage presence that engaged audiences.
• Evaluate the importance of Molière in the context of French Neoclassical theatre and how he shaped its evolution.
  • Molière holds a crucial place in French Neoclassical theatre as he not only adhered to its principles but also pushed boundaries through his innovative approach to comedy. His focus on human behavior and social critique set a new standard for playwrights who followed. By merging traditional Neoclassical elements with the spontaneity of Commedia dell'Arte, Molière helped evolve theatrical norms, paving the way for future generations of dramatists who would continue to explore complex characters and societal themes within structured forms.

Related terms

Neoclassicism:

An artistic movement that emerged in the 17th century, emphasizing clarity, order, and adherence to classical principles in literature and the arts.

Commedia dell'Arte: An Italian theatrical form characterized by improvisation, stock characters, and masked performances, which heavily influenced Molière's style.

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock societal norms and human vices.