|
|
| Line 1: |
Line 1: |
| ==Background== | | ==Background== |
| ''''Tartuffe'''' was written in 1664 during a time when the word of the Church was the word of law. Typically, the Church was very corrupt. The Company of the Holy Sacrament was a Catholic group who beleived in good deeds and have beliefs like the puritans. They were big on the placement of "spiritual advisors" into the homes of people. The group in particular did not like the play because it made Tartuffe, a spiritual advisor, a scoundrel and not a pious man. The first version of Tartuffe (1664), had only three acts and was banned because it was thought to be an attack to certain religious influence. It was later revised to include five acts in 1667 and was banned again. Finally in 1669 after more revisions the play was allowed.
| | <em>Tartuffe</em> was written in 1664 during a time when the word of the Church was the word of law. Typically, the Church was very corrupt and often sought personal wealth instead of spiritual growth. The Company of the Holy Sacrament was a Catholic group who believed in good deeds and had beliefs similar to those of the Puritans. They were known to place "spiritual advisors" within the homes of the people to ensure the families salvation. The group, in particular, did not like the play because it portrayed Tartuffe, who was spiritual advisor, as a scoundrel and not a pious man. |
|
| |
|
| ==Themes== | | ==Themes== |
| Line 32: |
Line 32: |
| ==Summary== | | ==Summary== |
| ===Act I=== | | ===Act I=== |
|
| |
| Act I opens with Madam Pernelle cursing everyone sitting at the dinner table. This includes Cleante, Elmire, Mariane, Dorine, and Damis. Madam Pernelle is upset at what her family says about Tartuffe. The family thinks Tartuffe is a hypocrite. Madam Pernelle and Orgon think he is a saint. She is also upset at Elmire’s parties, Dorine’s attitude toward those of higher stature, Damis’s foolishness, Mariane’s quiet nature, Cleante’s secular advice and knowledge and that no one will pay attention to her. Madam Pernelle leaves the house in anger.
| |
|
| |
| Everyone but Cleante and Dorine follow. Dorine takes the opportunity to complain to Cleante about the hypocritical actions of Tartuffe. Everyone who followed Madam Pernelle comes back. Elmire informs Cleante and Dorine that Orgon just arrived. Damis asks Cleante to speak with Orgon about the wedding between Valere and Mariane. Damis fears Tartuffe will use Orgon to prevent the marriage.
| |
|
| |
| Orgon enters and asks about everything that happened while he was gone. Dorine informs Orgon that Elmire had been sick with a fever and that Tartuffe is perfectly healthy. Orgon is more concerned with Tartuffe’s well being than with Elmire’s sickness. Dorine makes fun of this and Orgon does not realize. Dorine then exits. Cleante asks how Orgon can be fooled by Tartuffe’s disguise. Orgon praises Tartuffe for his pious nature. Orgon talks about Tartuffe’s poverty and how he took Tartuffe into his home. Orgon says Cleante is too worldly and has unsteady faith. Orgon and Cleante argue over Tartuffe until the argument ends in a stalemate. Cleante then asks about the marriage between Valere and Mariane. Orgon promised Valere that he could wed Mariane. Cleante asks why Orgon has now postponed that wedding. Orgon has no reason except that he wishes Heaven to guide him. Cleante also asks if the union of Valere and Mariane displeases Orgon. Orgon does not know. Cleante leaves to go tell Valere that trouble is on the horizon
| |
|
| |
| ===Act II=== | | ===Act II=== |
| ===Act III=== | | ===Act III=== |
