Le Médecin Malgré Lui
1666
Le Médecin malgré lui is a three-act farce written by Molière and first performed in 1666. The play follows Sganarelle, a drunken woodcutter who is mistakenly identified as a physician by his scheming wife, Martine, seeking revenge for his abusive behavior. As Sganarelle is coerced into pretending to be a doctor, he navigates a series of absurd and comedic situations, ultimately satirizing the medical practices of 17th century France. This work is notable for its exploration of imposture and arranged marriage themes, showcasing Molière's sharp wit and social commentary.
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“A shoemaker, in making a pair of shoes, cannot spoil a scrap of leather without having to bear the loss; but in our business we may spoil a man without its costing us a farthing. The blunders are never put down to us, and it is always the fault of the fellow who dies. The best of this profession is, that there is the greatest honesty and discretion among the dead; for you never find them complain of the physician who has killed them.””
— Molière
“Soit qu'on fasse bien ou soit qu'on fasse mal, on est toujours payé de même sorte.””
— Molière
“I find that it is the best trade of all; for, whether we manage well or ill, we are paid just the same.””
— Molière
“C'est une chose admirable, que tous les grands hommes ont toujours du caprice, quelque petit grain de folie mêlé à leur science.””
— Molière
