Molière
Molière (1622-1673) was a French playwright and actor, universally regarded as one of the greatest masters of comedy in the history of the theatre and the supreme figure of French drama. His sharp, hilarious satires of hypocrisy, pretension, and human folly have kept audiences laughing for nearly four centuries.
His masterpieces include Tartuffe, a savage comedy about a religious hypocrite; The Misanthrope, a subtle study of a man who despises society's insincerity; The Miser, about an obsessively greedy old man; and The Imaginary Invalid, about a hypochondriac. Molière combined broad farce with penetrating insight into character and society, often mocking the powerful and the pious.
He led his own theatre company and performed in his own plays, collapsing on stage during a performance of The Imaginary Invalid and dying hours later. His comedies remain staples of world theatre.
Our editions present his plays clearly for modern readers. Read the opening free, and read or listen with a membership.
Molière in the library · 2 works
Audiobooks by Molière
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Frequently asked questions about Molière
What did Molière write?
Molière wrote comedies for the theatre. His most famous plays include Tartuffe, The Misanthrope, The Miser, The Imaginary Invalid, The School for Wives, and Don Juan. His satirical comedies of manners and character are considered the greatest in the French language and among the finest ever written.
What is Tartuffe about?
Tartuffe is a comedy about a pious-seeming religious con man, Tartuffe, who worms his way into a wealthy household, manipulating its gullible master while secretly scheming to seize his fortune and seduce his wife. A savage satire of religious hypocrisy, it was so controversial that it was banned for a time. It remains one of the most famous comedies in world theatre.
Where should I start with Molière?
Tartuffe is the ideal starting point — his most famous play, funny, sharp, and still relevant. The Misanthrope and The Miser are also excellent, accessible comedies. All are short and highly entertaining. Begin with Tartuffe.
Why is Molière so important?
Molière essentially defined French comedy and elevated it to great art, blending broad laughs with profound insight into human nature and society. His fearless satire of hypocrisy, vanity, and greed made him both wildly popular and controversial. His plays are performed constantly around the world, and his influence on comedy is immense.
Are Molière's plays hard to read?
Not at all — his comedies are fast, funny, and built around vivid, recognisable characters, which makes them a pleasure to read. Older translations can feel stiff, which is the main barrier. A clear modern edition keeps the wit and comic timing sharp.
How did Molière die?
Molière collapsed on stage while performing the title role in his own comedy The Imaginary Invalid — a play about a hypochondriac obsessed with illness. Already seriously ill, he finished the performance but died just hours later, in 1673. The irony of a man who mocked doctors and imaginary illness dying while playing such a role has become part of theatre legend.
Where can I read Molière for free?
Molière's plays are in the public domain, and older translations are freely available. Some feel dated. Here you can read the opening free in clear modern English, and read or listen with a membership.
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