The Misanthrope
The Misanthrope
Book Brief
332
Play • Fiction
•
Education•
French LiteratureParis, France • 1660s
•
World History1666
Adult
16-18 years
Super Short Summary
In The Misanthrope by Molière, French aristocrat Alceste rails against societal hypocrisy, clashing with his friend Philinte and offending others with his brutal honesty. As he grapples with his love for the flirtatious Célimène and navigates legal troubles, Alceste's disdain for social conventions drives him towards isolation, while other characters attempt to address their own romantic entanglements.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Melancholic
Humorous
Reviews & Readership
24,673 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Misanthrope by Molière receives praise for its sharp wit, compelling satire, and insightful commentary on societal norms. Critics appreciate the complex character of Alceste and the play's exploration of hypocrisy. However, some feel its moral rigidity and period-specific dialogue may alienate contemporary audiences. Overall, it remains a significant work in classical literature.
Who Should Read The Misanthrope?
A reader who appreciates Molière's The Misanthrope will likely relish sharp social satire, wit, and the exploration of human follies. This audience often enjoys works like Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice or Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest, finding pleasure in clever dialogue and critique of societal norms.
24,673 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Molière wrote The Misanthrope in 1666, and it was first performed at the Théâtre du Palais-Royal, a theater owned by the king's brother which was known for supporting innovative and often controversial plays.
The character Alceste in The Misanthrope is thought to be a representation of Molière himself, reflecting his own critical views of the superficiality and duplicity of court society in 17th-century France.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
The play is written entirely in verse, using rhymed couplets in alexandrine meter, which showcases Molière's mastery of the French classical verse form.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
332
Play • Fiction
•
Education•
French LiteratureParis, France • 1660s
•
World History1666
Adult
16-18 years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!