The Life and Legacy of Molière

Molière: Master of French Stage Comedy

Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, better known by his stage name Molière, stands as a towering figure in French theatre, renowned for his mastery of comedy. Born into a prosperous family in Paris, he was baptized on January 15, 1622. Despite the early death of his mother and his father's role as a royal upholsterer, Molière pursued his passion for the stage. At 21, he established the Illustre Théâtre with the actress Madeleine Béjart. Although the company initially faced financial hardship, including Molière's imprisonment for debt, this venture set the stage for his lifelong commitment to theatre.

Formative Years and Theatrical Contributions

Molière's early career was marked by adversity. His Illustre Théâtre could not compete with the dominant Parisian playhouses, prompting a provincial tour that lasted 12 years. This period honed his skills as an actor and a theatre manager. A turning point came in 1658 when his troupe performed before King Louis XIV at the Louvre. The play "Le Docteur Amoureux" was well-received, earning the patronage of Philippe I, Duke of Orléans, the king's brother. Despite this royal endorsement, Molière faced ongoing criticism and rivalry. He responded with creative innovations, such as the comédie-ballet, which combined dance and theatre, and integrating elements of Italian commedia dell'arte into his productions.

Landmark Works of Molière

Molière's oeuvre includes numerous plays that remain staples of French literature. "The School for Wives" (1662) exemplified his talent for using comedy to critique societal conventions, depicting Arnolphe's futile efforts to mold the young Agnès into an obedient wife. The play's provocative content led Molière to pen "The Critique of The School for Wives" to address his critics. "Tartuffe" (1664), which satirized religious hypocrisy, was initially censored and banned but eventually triumphed. "The Misanthrope" (1666), a comedy of manners, received a lukewarm reception at first but has since been recognized as a profound satire on the pretenses of French aristocracy.

Enduring Impact Amidst Controversy

Molière's plays frequently stirred controversy, particularly among the religious establishment, conservative writers, and the aristocracy. Works like "Tartuffe" were perceived as bold critiques of societal and religious mores, attracting censure and hostility. Nevertheless, Molière astutely avoided direct criticism of the monarchy, which helped retain the support of King Louis XIV. His comedic approach, which used satire to expose human follies and societal contradictions, established him as a forerunner of modern French comedy. His legacy persists in his profound impact on the genre, defining comedy through the interplay of opposites, such as wisdom and folly, or the sacred and the profane.

Molière's Death and Lasting Fame

Molière's life ended as dramatically as his plays unfolded, with his death from pulmonary tuberculosis on February 17, 1673, at the age of 51. He passed away after being seized by a coughing fit during a performance of "The Imaginary Invalid." Initially interred in a grave for unbaptized infants due to the prevailing prejudices against actors, his remains were later transferred to the renowned Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. Molière's genius is celebrated to this day, with his works performed and revered for their timeless wit and their incisive commentary on the human condition.