Tartuffe

How does Tartuffe adhere to French Neoclassical ideals?

 If you were to direct the “table scene” in Act IV, what stage directions, or actions, would you suggest for Tartuffe, Elmire, and Orgon to highlight their purposes or roles in the climactic scene?

In what ways are Orgon’s children Mariane and Damis similar and different from their father?

Explain why Cleante could be labeled “the voice of reason” in this play.

The maid Dorine and stepmother Elmire play significant roles in Tartuffe. How do you explain the nature of family dynamics, social class structure, and gender roles in the play?

How does the author’s structure of monologues intermingled with dialogue affect your understanding of the characters’ interactions in the play?

During the French Neoclassical period, clear distinctions between comedy and tragedy existed. If Molière had written this play as a tragedy, what changes in plot and character might he have made?

Is Orgon’s “worship” of Tartuffe an example of true devoutness? Use examples from the play to explain.