El Avaro / El Médico a Palos / El Enfermo Imaginario : Book Review

"El Avaro, El Médico a Palos, El Enfermo Imaginario" is a delightful collection of plays written by the renowned French playwright, Molière. This collection showcases Molière's exceptional wit and insight into the complexities of human behavior.

The first play, "El Avaro," revolves around the wealthy Harpagon, a man consumed by his love for money. Harpagon's obsession creates tension within his family and leads to hilarious and comedic situations. Molière cleverly critiques the corrosive nature of greed and materialism, highlighting the impact it has on relationships and society as a whole.

In "El Médico a Palos," Molière satirizes the medical profession through the character of Purgón, a fake doctor who manages to convince people of his expertise despite his lack of knowledge. Through witty dialogue and physical humor, Molière humorously exposes society's tendency to unquestioningly place their trust in self-proclaimed experts. This play serves as a commentary on the importance of critical thinking and questioning authority.

Lastly, "El Enfermo Imaginario" delves into the comedic world of Argán, a hypochondriac who constantly believes he is ill. Molière humorously explores the absurdity of excessive worrying and self-obsession through this character. The play provides a lighthearted examination of human behavior, shedding light on the potential consequences of irrational thoughts and anxieties.

Throughout these plays, Molière captivates the audience with his clever dialogue, witty plot twists, and thought-provoking themes. His satirical approach engages readers and encourages them to reflect on society, relationships, and the follies of human nature. Molière's genius lies in his ability to seamlessly blend comedy and social commentary, creating an entertaining and enlightening experience for his audience.

What are readers saying?

The plays written by Molière, such as "El Avaro," "El Médico a Palos," and "El Enfermo Imaginario," have received diverse reviews. Overall, readers have expressed their appreciation for Molière's comedic brilliance, wit, and his insightful exploration of human nature and social issues. However, some reviewers found the language and humor challenging to comprehend, which affected their enjoyment of the plays.

Many readers praised Molière's exceptional ability to create entertaining and thought-provoking stories. They commended his clever dialogue, humorous situations, and skillful development of characters. Molière's talent for satirizing societal norms and revealing human flaws was particularly celebrated, with readers highlighting his sharp observations of greed, vanity, and hypocrisy.

Some reviewers also enjoyed Molière's use of physical comedy and slapstick humor, finding it to be a delightful element of the plays. They appreciated how he employed satire and humor to explore deeper themes, making the plays engaging and entertaining to read.

However, a few readers struggled to understand the language and wordplay used by Molière. They mentioned that the translation may have hindered their comprehension of the humor and intended meaning. As a result, these reviewers felt disconnected from the plays and had difficulty fully appreciating Molière's comedic brilliance.

Nevertheless, the majority of readers recognized Molière's lasting impact on the world of theater. They appreciated his ability to tackle serious topics through laughter, earning him praise for his timeless appeal and relevance. Many reviewers expressed gratitude for the opportunity to experience Molière's work, acknowledging the plays as valuable sources of entertainment and enlightenment.

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