L'avare Summary of Molière's Book

L'Avare by Molière: A Tale of Greed and Comedy

L'Avare, written by the renowned French playwright Molière, is a timeless comedy that delves into the themes of greed, family dynamics, and the absurdity of human behavior. First published on September 9, 1668, this classic play has stood the test of time and continues to entertain audiences with its witty dialogue and razor-sharp satire.

Characters

• Harpagon: The central character of the play, Harpagon is an elderly and miserly man who values his wealth above all else. He goes to absurd lengths to protect his money, even going as far as taking a neighbor's cat to court for eating the leftovers of a meal.
• Elise: Harpagon's daughter, Elise is forced to navigate her father's greed as he tries to marry her off to the highest bidder. She is in love with Valère, a young man who is not rich but is devoted to her.
• Cleante: Harpagon's son, Cleante is a free-spirited young man who is in love with Mariane. However, his father's insistence on wealth and status stands in the way of their love.
• Valère: A noble young man who is in love with Elise. Despite not being wealthy, Valère is determined to win her hand in marriage and is willing to go to great lengths to outwit Harpagon.
• Mariane: The object of Cleante's affections, Mariane is a kind and gentle young woman who is caught in the middle of Harpagon's schemes. She must decide between love and financial security.

Detailed Summary

The play begins with Harpagon, a wealthy but miserly man, setting his sights on marrying off his children to increase his wealth. He plans to marry his daughter Elise to a wealthy old man and marry his son Cleante to a wealthy widow. However, Elise is in love with Valère, and Cleante is in love with Mariane.

Harpagon's obsession with money leads to absurd situations, such as when he takes his neighbor's cat to court for eating his meal leftovers. He also refuses to give his son the money he needs to marry Mariane, instead insisting on loaning it to him at an exorbitant interest rate. Harpagon's greed knows no bounds, and he even goes so far as to consider selling his daughter to the highest bidder.

As the play progresses, the two young couples devise schemes to outwit Harpagon and secure their happiness. Valère pretends to be a servant in Harpagon's house to be close to Elise, while Cleante hatches a plan to win Mariane's hand in marriage. In the end, Harpagon's schemes unravel, leading to a hilarious and satisfying conclusion where true love triumphs over greed.

Analysis

L'Avare is a masterful blend of comedy and social commentary, showcasing Molière's talent for satirizing human folly. The character of Harpagon serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the ways in which it can corrupt relationships and destroy families. Through Harpagon's absurd behavior, Molière highlights the absurdity of valuing wealth over love and human connection.

The play also explores the dynamics of family relationships, particularly the tension between parents and children. Harpagon's desire to control his children's lives for his own financial gain leads to conflict and unhappiness, ultimately underscoring the importance of mutual respect and understanding within families.

Overall, L'Avare is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its sharp wit, memorable characters, and insightful commentary on human nature make it a must-read for fans of comedy and drama alike.

Final thoughts

If you enjoy tales of comedy, romance, and social satire, L'Avare by Molière is a must-read. Dive into the world of Harpagon and his eccentric family as they navigate the absurdities of wealth and greed. Purchase the complete book to experience the full charm and wit of Molière's classic play, or listen to the audiobook for a delightful storytelling experience.

So, what are you waiting for? Immerse yourself in the world of L'Avare and discover why this timeless comedy continues to captivate audiences centuries after its initial publication.

9782091878232 (ISBN10: 2091878235)