Five Plays : Book Review

Molière's "Five Plays" presents a captivating collection of the author's most renowned and beloved works. This anthology showcases five masterpieces, including "Tartuffe," "The School for Wives," "The Misanthrope," "The Would-Be Gentleman," and "The Miser." Through these plays, Molière introduces unique characters, engaging dialogue, and thought-provoking themes that have captivated audiences for centuries.

In "Tartuffe," Molière skillfully exposes the hypocrisy of religious figures as Orgon's unquestioning admiration for Tartuffe leads to a series of comical and disastrous events. This play serves as a sharp critique of religious fanaticism and explores themes of trust and deception.

"The School for Wives" offers a humorous and compelling tale of Arnolphe, a middle-aged man who aims to mold a young, innocent girl into the perfect wife. However, his plans are thwarted when love intervenes. This play delves into themes of desire, love, and the limitations of control.

"The Misanthrope" revolves around Alceste, a man disillusioned with the hypocrisy of society and its superficialities. Molière brilliantly portrays the conflict between Alceste's disdain for the flaws of humanity and his own love for a woman who embodies those very flaws. This play invites the audience to reflect on sincerity, social conventions, and the complexities of relationships.

"The Would-Be Gentleman" combines comedy and satire as Monsieur Jourdain, the protagonist, attempts to rise in social status by adopting noble manners and behaviors. Through this farcical tale, Molière explores the absurdity of social climbing and the significance of remaining true to oneself.

What are readers saying?

"Molière's Five Plays" is a compilation of well-known theatrical works by the celebrated playwright. This collection features five renowned plays: "Tartuffe," "The Misanthrope," "The School for Wives," "The Clever Women," and "The Imaginary Invalid." These plays have garnered varied reviews from readers, showcasing a mix of positive and slightly more critical feedback.

One consistent theme that emerges from reader reviews is Molière's comedic brilliance. Readers universally praise his sharp wit and humor, applauding his ability to create delightful moments of laughter throughout the plays. Molière's adept use of satire and irony is also highly regarded, as he skillfully tackles societal norms and exposes hypocrisy in a humorous and engaging manner.

The characters in Molière's plays particularly captivate readers. Many reviewers find them vivid, relatable, and thoroughly entertaining. From the cunning Tartuffe to the quick-witted Alceste, Molière has created memorable characters that add depth and complexity to the plays, making them even more enjoyable to read.

Nevertheless, a few reviewers express mixed feelings about the plays' language and writing style. Some find the language slightly outdated and challenging to grasp, which diminishes their overall reading experience. However, others embrace the poetic nature of Molière's writing, appreciating the richness and elegance it brings to the plays.

Furthermore, reviewers also highlight the social commentary prevalent in Molière's works. Many appreciate how he addresses timeless themes such as deception, love, and societal expectations, finding relevance in these issues even in today's world. Molière's ability to shed light on these topics while keeping the audience entertained receives high praise from readers.

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