Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known popularly by his stage name Molière, is regarded as one of the masters of French comedic drama. When Molière began acting in Paris there were two well-established theatrical companies, those of the Hôtel de Bourgogne and the Marais. Joining these theatrical companies would have been impossible for a new member of the acting profession like Molière and thus he performed with traveling troupes of actors in the French provinces. It was during this period that Molière would refine his skills as both an actor and a writer. Eventually his reputation would increase allowing him to return to Paris where he gained the patronage of Philippe I, Duke of Orléans, the brother of the King of France, Louis XIV. One of Molière’s most controversial plays, “Tartuffe” first appeared in 1664. It is the story of Orgon, the head of his family, who has fallen under the influence of Tartuffe, an imposter who pretends to be pious and to speak with divine authority. Because of its satirical presentation of religion “Tartuffe” greatly offended religious authorities of the time causing its censor by the King. Eventually after two revisions the play was allowed to be publically performed at the Palais-Royal theatre were it was highly successful. This edition follows the translation of Curtis Hidden Page, includes an introduction by John E. Matzke, and a biographical afterword.
