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36 pages 1 hour read

Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1670

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Book Brief

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Molière

Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1670
Book Details
Pages

89

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Paris, France • 1670s

Publication Year

1670

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known as Molière, premiered his comedy Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme in 1670. The play centers on Monsieur Jourdain, a nouveau-riche man from a humble background who aspires to join the nobility. He hires dubious tutors, is exploited by a noble friend, and pursues a marchioness for social gain. His daughter, Lucile, loves Clèonte, who fools Jourdain into allowing their marriage through a ruse.

Humorous

Playful

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Molière's Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme is celebrated for its incisive satire of social climbing and pretension. Critics commend its witty dialogue and engaging characters, though some find its humor dated. Overall, it remains a significant comedic work, offering sharp observations on human folly.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme?

A reader who enjoys Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme by Molière appreciates classic comedy, satire, and social commentary. Similar to fans of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen or The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde, they revel in wit, class critique, and the absurdities of societal pretensions.

Character List

Monsieur Jourdain

A wealthy middle-class man who desires to rise in social status by emulating the nobility, often failing to see how his attempts make him the subject of ridicule.

The practical wife of Monsieur Jourdain, who is skeptical of her husband’s aspirations and keen on protecting their daughter from his decisions.

The daughter of Monsieur and Madame Jourdain, in love with Cléonte and determined not to marry anyone else, valuing love over social ambition.

The Jourdain family maid, quick-witted and bold, who aids in household schemes and sees through Monsieur Jourdain's pretensions.

Lucile’s suitor, characterized by his love for her and a lack of interest in social titles despite the obstacles posed by her father.

Cléonte’s valet and a crafty trickster, who actively engages in schemes to aid his master’s romantic pursuits.

A nobleman who exploits Monsieur Jourdain’s desire for aristocratic status to benefit his own financial situation.

A widow of noble rank courted by Doranté, who maintains her independence and is unaware of the deceptions around her.

A collection of tutors and artisans employed by Monsieur Jourdain to teach him the arts and manners of nobility, often finding him an inept student.

Book Details
Pages

89

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Paris, France • 1670s

Publication Year

1670

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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