Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Molière's timeless comedy exposes the dangers of religious hypocrisy through the cunning Tartuffe, who manipulates the gullible Orgon into surrendering his family and fortune. With sharp wit and biting satire, the play explores themes of deception, family loyalty, and the conflict between outward piety and inner corruption, offering a universal critique of human nature.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in Paris, Molière's comedy *Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite* exposes the dangers of religious hypocrisy through the tragicomic misfortunes of Orgon, a wealthy merchant whose judgment is clouded by blind devotion. The household descends into chaos upon the arrival of Tartuffe, a pious stranger who quickly wins the fervent allegiance of Orgon's mother, Madame Pernelle, and eventually his entire family. Orgon becomes so obsessed with Tartuffe that he alienates his wife, Elmire, his son Damis, and his daughter Mariane, treating the stranger as a superior being sent from heaven. Tartuffe exploits this trust to dictate family affairs, oppose Mariane's marriage to Valère, and orchestrate a fraudulent contract to seize Orgon's estate. While the family grows increasingly distressed by Tartuffe's arrogance and the scandalous rumors he spreads, Orgon remains willfully blind, convinced of the stranger's sanctity. The situation escalates dramatically when a bailiff arrives to enforce the fraudulent deed, demanding the immediate eviction of the rightful owners. Just as the family prepares to flee, Tartuffe reveals his true colors, accusing Orgon of treason to the Prince in a desperate bid to secure the property for himself. However, the plot takes a dramatic turn when Valère, a friend of the family, reveals that Tartuffe has actually betrayed Orgon to the Prince. Recognizing Tartuffe's hypocrisy, the Prince orders his immediate arrest and nullifies the fraudulent deed. The play concludes with the family reunited, Orgon humbled and repentant, and the restoration of justice and order, serving as a sharp satire on the vices of the day and the folly of judging character by outward appearance.

LLM editorial rating

4.5/5

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2026-07-01 16:03 UTC

Categories

• Drama
• Comedy