The Miser

Harpagon, or “The Miser” is the titular character of Molière’s The Miser. Harpagon is an older, mean-hearted man who cares much more for his money than he does for any of the people in his life. He abuses his servants, horses, and anyone around him, allowing his own home to fall into disrepair rather than spend money to fix it. He is described by La Fleche as someone who would “rather tear out his vitals than give up a sous [a type of French coin]” (25).

As such, his grown children are seen as commodities or business deals rather than family members, and his stinginess causes all who know him to loathe him. However, because he does have money, many of the characters flatter him to his face while speaking ill of him behind his back. He is prideful and quick-tempered, always ready to accuse someone of stealing from him. However his pride is ultimately his downfall, as he finds himself falling for the flattery of others and is easily tricked. His obsession with wealth leaves him unable to form genuine connections with others, forming a stark contrast to the love matches and motivations his children have. At the play’s end, he remains indifferent to the happy celebrations carrying on around him, caring only for his reunion with his strongbox full of money.