The Angle
First Page
15
Last Page
15
Abstract
In lieu of an abstract, below is the essay's first paragraph.
"Molière, complying with the demands of Louis XIV of France, presented in 1670 a remarkable parody on Turkish customs and language. Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme has brought the plaudits of critics and audiences alike since that time. The play or piece is composed of three acts of character comedy in the folly on Monsieur Jourdain, and two of exaggeration and parody in the events leading up to and the Turkish ceremony. The action develops through a series of episodes rather than a well knit, unified intrigue. Superimposed on the satire on society is a whole-hearted humor prompted by the ignorance and credulity of the central figure, Jourdain, a tradesman who wishes to become a gentleman. He is not an arbitrary figure or character type, but a real human being with exaggerated idiosyncrasies. Molière had associated with this type character in his father's shop. Some critics say that the author would have liked to write of this subject with a more exalted humor, but hurriedly debased it to farce in an effort to suit the wishes of the king."
Recommended Citation
Engels, Roy F.
(1957)
"An Analysis,"
The Angle: Vol. 1957:
Iss.
1, Article 13.
Available at:
https://fisherpub.sjf.edu/angle/vol1957/iss1/13