Molière
Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known as Molière, was a pivotal figure in French literature, celebrated for his sharp wit and keen observations of human behavior. Born in Paris, he initially pursued a career in law before turning to the theater, where he would become one of the most influential playwrights of the 17th century. Molière's works, such as 'Tartuffe,' 'The Misanthrope,' and 'The Imaginary Invalid,' showcased his mastery of comedy and satire, often critiquing societal norms and human folly. His unique blend of humor and social commentary established him as a foundational figure in the development of modern comedy. Molière's legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which includes comedies, farces, and comédie-ballets. His plays are characterized by their rich characterizations and intricate plots, often highlighting the absurdities of life and the complexities of human relationships. The impact of Molière's writing is profound; he not only shaped the French theatrical tradition but also influenced playwrights across Europe and beyond. His works continue to be performed worldwide, and the French language is often referred to as the 'language of Molière,' underscoring his lasting significance in literature and the arts.
Famous Quotes
View all 87 quotes“You may plainly perceive the traitor through his mask; he is well known every-where in his true colors; his rolling eyes and his honeyed tones impose only on those who do not know him. People are aware that this low-bred fellow, who deserves to be pilloried, has, by the dirtiest jobs, made his way in the world; and that the splendid position he has acquired makes merit repine and virtue blush. Yet whatever dishonourable epithets may be launched against him everywhere, nobody defends his wretched honour. Call him a rogue, an infamous wretch, a confounded scoundrel if you like, all the world will say “yea, ” and no one contradicts you. But for all that, his bowing and scraping are welcome everywhere; he is received, smiled upon, and wriggles himself into all kinds of society; and, if any appointment is to be secured by intriguing, he will carry the day over a man of the greatest worth. Zounds! these are mortal stabs to me, to see vice parleyed with; and sometimes times I feel suddenly inclined to fly into a wilderness far from the approach of men.”
“ما أصلح هذه السيدة!الحق يقال انها تعيش في زهد وورع؛ولكنه التقدم في السن هو الذي دفعها الى ذلك.إنها تتنسك ولا تسمح لأحد بأن يمس جسدها.لقد تمتعت بمحاسنها ما استطاعت أن تجذب القلوب وتغريها؛ولكنها حين رأت ذبول عينيها وزوال بهجتهازهدت في الدنيا التي أعرضت عنها ،وأخفت جمالها الذاوي وراء نقاب الحكمة الجليل.تلك هي تقلبات ذوات الغنج في عصرنا هذا: يشق عليهن هجر الظرفاء المحبين لهنفلا يجدن ملاذا في ظلام همومهنإلا باحتراف التقى والفضيلةولقد بلغت قسوة تلك النساء الصالحاتان رحن ينددن بكل شيء ولا يتجاوزن عن شيء:فهن ينتقدن جهارا سلوك كل إنسان،لا عن تقوى وصلاح ولكن بدافع من الحسدالذي يأبى على الآخرين الاستمتاع بلذات فطمهن تقادم السن عنها”
“Hé quoi ? vous ne ferez nulle distinctionEntre l'hypocrisie et la dévotion? Vous les voulez traiter d'un semblable langage,Et rendre même honneur au masque qu'au visage,Égaler l'artifice à la sincérité,Confondre l'apparence avec la vérité,Estimer le fantôme autant que la personne,Et la fausse monnaie à l'égal de la bonne ?Les hommes la plupart sont étrangement faits !Dans la juste nature on ne les voit jamais ;La raison a pour eux des bornes trop petites ;En chaque caractère ils passent ses limites ;Et la plus noble chose, ils la gâtent souventPour la vouloir outrer et pousser trop avant.”
