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Cover of Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite

Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite

Written by Molière

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Comedy playsFrench drama

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About this book

"Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite" by Molière is a play written in the 17th century. The work delves into themes of hypocrisy, religion, and morality, focusing on the character of Tartuffe, a fraudulent religious zealot who manipulates those around him for personal gain. The narrative unfolds around Orgon, the head of a household who is entranced by Tartuffe's false piety, causing tension within his family. The opening of the play introduces us to Madame Pernelle, who is extremely critical of her family and their lifestyle, blaming them for not adhering to the moral dictates of Tartuffe, whom she considers virtuous. Various characters voice their disdain and skepticism towards Tartuffe, especially Damis, who is frustrated by his family's blind obedience to the scheming impostor. As the dialogue progresses, it becomes clear that Orgon is under the spell of Tartuffe, ignoring the concerns of his family. The conflict escalates with Damis's determination to protect his family's honor from Tartuffe's impending grasp, setting the stage for the ensuing drama centered on deception and the quest for truth.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 3 hours
  • intermediate
  • satirical
  • humorous
  • tense

Molière's "Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite" is a biting 17th-century French comedy that exposes the dangers of religious hypocrisy and blind devotion. The play centers on Orgon, a wealthy Parisian patriarch, who falls under the spell of Tartuffe, a seemingly pious but utterly fraudulent religious zealot. Tartuffe systematically manipulates Orgon, gaining control over his household, fortune, and even attempting to marry his daughter and seduce his wife. The rest of Orgon's family, seeing through Tartuffe's pretense, desperately tries to unmask him, leading to escalating domestic chaos and a climactic confrontation where truth is revealed and justice ultimately prevails through a dramatic royal intervention.

“"The world, dear sister, is a den of thieves."”

Key themes

Hypocrisy and Deception
The central theme of the play, exploring how individuals can use a facade of virtue and piety to manipulate others for personal gain. Tartuffe's entire character is built on this deception, as he feigns religious devotion to exploit Orgon's trust, wealth, and family. The play meticulously dissects the mechanisms of such fraud and its corrosive effects on individuals and society.
Religious Fanaticism vs. True Piety
Molière carefully distinguishes between genuine religious devotion and the dangerous, blind fanaticism that Orgon exhibits towards Tartuffe. Characters like Cléante articulate a balanced, reasonable approach to faith, while Orgon's obsession with Tartuffe demonstrates how piety can be twisted into an irrational, destructive force that sacrifices family and common sense.
Reason vs. Blind Emotion/Obsession
The play sets up a clear conflict between the rational arguments and common sense of characters like Cléante, Dorine, and Elmire, and Orgon's irrational, emotional obsession with Tartuffe. Orgon's inability to see truth, despite overwhelming evidence, highlights how powerful emotions or fixed ideas can override reason and lead to disastrous decisions.

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