Amphitryon (eBook)

Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known by his stage name Molière, was a preeminent French playwright, actor, and poet renowned for his satirical comedies that have endured as classics of the stage. Born on January 15, 1622, in Paris, France, Molière was the son of affluent parents and was expected to inherit his father's position as a royal upholsterer. However, he eschewed this path to pursue a career in the theater (Gaines, 2002). He founded the Illustre Théâtre with actress Madeleine Béjart, and despite an early financial failure, he persevered and eventually earned the patronage of Louis XIV. Molière's talent in blending comical characters, wit, and social commentary won favor with the court and public alike. Literary scholars celebrate Molière for his unique contributions to the Comédie Française and for masterpieces such as 'Tartuffe,' 'The Misanthrope,' and 'The Imaginary Invalid' (Hartnoll, 1983). His play 'Amphitryon,' based on Plautus' Latin comedy, showcases his skill in adapting classical ideas to contemporary forms, employing elements of farce to explore themes of identity and illusion, further exemplifying his literary prowess (Scott, 1990). Molière's influence on French theater and literature is monumental, and his works continue to be performed and studied for their artistry and insight into the human condition. He passed away on February 17, 1673, shortly after collapsing on stage during a performance of his final play, 'The Imaginary Invalid.'