W 1980 Moliere, Franklin Library Edition
Notes
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The School for Husbands (L'École des maris): This comedy explores the contrast between two different styles of husbandry. One husband is authoritarian and restrictive, while the other is more lenient and permissive. The play critiques the institution of marriage and the nature of control within it.
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The School for Wives (L'École des femmes): This play centers on the character Arnolphe, who aims to educate and control his young wife to ensure her obedience. The play examines themes of marriage, gender roles, and the folly of trying to mold a partner.
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The Misanthrope (Le Misanthrope): A satire of social hypocrisy, this play features Alceste, a man disillusioned with the deceit and insincerity of society. His idealism clashes with the reality of human nature, leading to personal conflict and social critique.
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Tartuffe or the Impostor (Tartuffe): This comedy revolves around Tartuffe, a conman who pretends to be pious to exploit his host’s family. The play critiques religious hypocrisy and the gullibility of those who are easily deceived.
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The Miser (L'Avare): The play focuses on Harpagon, a miserly old man obsessed with money. His greed leads to a series of comical and disastrous situations as he tries to control the lives of his children and servants.
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The Would-Be Gentleman (Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme): This play satirizes social climbing and pretension. Monsieur Jourdain, a wealthy merchant, tries to gain acceptance into the aristocracy through affectation and attempts to learn the manners and airs of a noble.
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The Imaginary Invalid (Le Malade imaginaire): Molière’s final play, it humorously critiques the medical profession through the character of Argan, a hypochondriac who constantly feigns illness to gain attention and sympathy. The play satirizes medical quackery and the gullibility of patients.
Each of these plays reflects Molière’s keen observation of social norms and human behavior, blending humor with sharp social commentary.
Description
Navy leather bound edition with gold embossed detailing on spine, front, and back cover as well as gold embossed lettering on the spine. Gold fore edge with navy silk bookmark and three raised bands. Pristine Franklin Library Edition with a few illustrations throughout.
