Tartuffe

In Act I, Scene 4 Orgon’s reactions are especially funny because of the household news he wants to know. He asked about how the family is doing but in short he was only concerned about Tartuffe. In Act I, Scene 2 Dorine said “He calls him brother, and loves him as his life, preferring him to mother, child, or wife” (lines 15-16). This is seen in his attitude towards the household news. His wife was sick, “simply hellish” and all Orgon was concerned about was Tartuffe. Every time Dorine told Orgon about the condition of his wife, all Orgon repeated was “And Tartuffe?... poor fellow.” It is ironic for Tartuffe was in perfect health and enjoying himself in Orgon’s house and yet Orgon felt as if he needed more.

Orgon insists on his authority in Acts II and III. In Act III, Scene I Orgon insist that his daughter, Marianne, marry Tartuffe. “Yes, Tartuffe shall be your husband, is that clear?” (lines 27-29). In his firmness to be right, he undermines Dorine in the line “I’m master here, as you must not forget” (line 22). Dorine kept telling Orgon that it would be a big mistake if Marianne marries Tartuffe. Dorine tries in vain to tell Orgon that Tartuffe is not what he thinks he is; that he is not a pious man but a fake.

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Tartuffe said “…excuse my violent affection, as human weakness, human imperfection” (lines 130-131). Dorine wants Elmire to side with them along with Damis. Cleante is very sensible and outspoken. Tartuffe also said that he will not try to defend himself and that he will take the blame.

Tartuffe’s flaw, Elmire, will eventually lead to his downfall. He also told Elmire that it wouldn’t be a sin if they are in a relationship if no one knows about it.

Cleante’s attitude in Act I, Scene 5 contrasts Orgon’s. He is shrewd in his well-wishes and style of speech. “I’ve no wish to offend you…how can you be possibly be such a goose” (lines 2-4). Orgon made it clear to everyone that noting they do can prevent his plan of marriage between Tartuffe and Marriane. He does not pretend to be someone that he’s not and he’s not blinded by other people. Damis overheard the entire conversation from the closet and tiold the news to Orgon.

Tartuffe clears himself after Damis’ accusation by actually telling the truth. You’ve been most kind, I count myself your debtor” Act III, Scene 3 (lines 14-15). She knows that Tartuffe is a hypocrite and manipulative.

Approximate Word count = 1326
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)

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