THE STORY: Jupiter, king of the Gods, has again become enamored with a mortal woman, Alcmena, wife of the military general, Amphitryon. During the general's absence in the field, Jupiter assumes Amphitryon's form, and is gladly welcomed home and into Alcm

This timeless comedy by one of France's greatest playwrights follows the outrageous activities of a penniless scoundrel and religious pretender. Invited to live in his benefactor's house, he wreaks havoc among family members by breaking off the daughter's engagement, attempting to seduce his hostess, and resorting to blackmail and extortion.

Molière's 'The Impostures of Scapin' stands as a classic work in the canon of French comedy, deftly blending slapstick, sharp wit, and social commentary. As a farcical comedy, the play unfolds with brisk pacing, entwining the escapades of the crafty servant Scapin, who artfully manipulates and deceives the other characters, drawing them into a web of comedic chaos. Rooted in the tradition of commedia dell'arte, Molière's work not only reflects its literary context but also elevates the style through rich characterizations and a nuanced examination of class and human folly. This edition, lovingly brought forth by DigiCat Publishing, encapsulates the timelessness of Molière's humor, masterfully preserving its linguistic verve and the spirited dynamism of its original performance for the modern reader. Born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, Molière was France's pre-eminent 17th-century playwright, humorist, and actor-manager, renowned for his satirical comedies. Drawing from his own stage experience and society's foibles, Molière crafted 'The Impostures of Scapin' to highlight the absurdities of human nature and the class system of his time. His inspiration stemmed from the comical traditions of his age and his keen observer's eye for everyday human weaknesses. Presumed influences range from his ongoing battle with personal debt and the complexities of his role in a stratified society to the subtler nuances of human relationships. The era's political undertones are subtly woven into his works, particularly the tension between the entrenched aristocracy and emerging bourgeois. This edition of 'The Impostures of Scapin' is recommended for aficionados of classic literature, theatre enthusiasts, and students of the human condition. It offers a delightful sojourn into the realm of one of the greatest comedic playwrights, revealing Molière's unparalleled ability to entertain and enlighten simultaneously. Its translation into the modern-day format sustains the heart and wit of Molière's original prose, providing accessibility to a wider contemporary audience. DigiCat Publishing's commitment to the conservation of literary heritage ensures that both new readers and seasoned scholars alike can appreciate the genius of Molière and the enduring relevance of his work.

THE STORY: Two brothers, Sganarelle and Ariste, have been named guardians of a deceased friend's two daughters, to raise and even marry if they see fit. Ariste has raised Leonor with great freedom, allowing her to go to parties, indulging her whims

A hypochondriac, victimized by pompous physicians, tests the loyalty of a loving daughter and discovers the contempt of his scheming and greedy second wife. This classic comedy from one of the most brilliant satirists in the history of literature deflates the pretensions of society and reveals the universal frailties of humanity.

THE STORY: Outraged and disheartened by the vain flattery and calculated duplicity of his fellow men, Alceste declares that henceforth he will speak only the truth--no matter what offense this might give. His philosophic friend Philinte counsels him

In Molière's 'The Middle-Class Gentleman,' readers are transported into the comedically exaggerated milieu of social aspiration and pretension. As one of the seminal figures in French literature, Molière imbues this play with his characteristic wit and satire, expertly utilizing dramatic irony and farce to critique the affectations of the burgeoning bourgeoisie. Within the context of 17th-century French society, where class distinctions were both rigid and revered, this work serves as both a timeless commentary on the universal desire for social mobility and a critical examination of the foibles of upstart gentility. The literary craftsmanship is evident in Molière's precise dialogue and the sophisticated structure of this comedic ballet, tipping its hat to the conventions of the courtly comedies of the time while subverting them with incisive social commentary. Molière, born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, was a master playwright who channeled his keen observations of French society into his works. 'The Middle-Class Gentleman' likely drew from his insights into the social dynamics of his era, an age characterized by the emergence of a wealthy merchant class eager to adopt the manners and tastes of the nobility. Personal experiences of witnessing societal shifts and his involvement in the theatrical world would have informed his exploration of the themes of pretense and hypocrisy, particularly in the character of Monsieur Jourdain, who aspires to transcend his bourgeois roots through art, fashion, and language. Molière's own life—a blend of artistry and engagement with the social hierarchy of the time—provides a rich backdrop to this play. For lovers of classic literature and students of social dynamics, 'The Middle-Class Gentleman' remains as relevant today as when it first delighted 17th-century audiences. This reproduction by DigiCat Publishing is an opportunity to engage with Molière's sharp wit and deep understanding of the human condition. Whether you are a reader fascinated by historical insights into class and society, or someone who enjoys the timeless humor that emerges from the follies of human behavior, Molière's work continues to be a vibrant testimony to the enduring nature of social satire and the comedic arts. DigiCat's commitment to preserving the integrity of this classic ensures that its wisdom, humor, and artistry can be appreciated anew by contemporary audiences.

In Molière's captivating comedy, "The Countess of Escarbagnas," the playwright masterfully blends sharp wit with astute social commentary, presenting a tapestry of 17th-century French societal norms and individual folly. The play revolves around the charming yet naïve Countess, ensnared in the duplicitous machinations of suitors vying for her affection, wholly primered in Molière's signature style of biting humor and character-driven narratives. The intricate interplay of deception, love, and societal expectation resonates throughout the text, creating a rich literary context that reflects the era's emerging themes of romantic entanglement and identity crisis within the aristocracy. Molière, a luminary of French literature and a pioneer of comedic theater, drew upon his own experiences with the diverse social strata of France to inform this work. His keen observations of human behavior, coupled with his theatrical background, allowed him to craft characters that are both ludicrous and relatable, bridging the gap between the audience and the stage. Molière's insights into the follies of love and pretense harmonize with the comedic elements, offering a profound exploration of societal truths intertwined with entertainment. "The Countess of Escarbagnas" is essential reading for those interested in the evolution of theater and social commentary. Molière deftly invites readers to reflect upon the absurdities of desire and the masks we wear, making it a timeless piece that resonates with contemporary themes. This play is a delightful concoction of laughter and insight, ensuring its place in the pantheon of classic literature.

In his comedic masterpiece, "The Learned Women," Molière deftly satirizes the pretensions of academicism and the societal constraints of 17th-century France. The play revolves around the tumultuous relationships within a household dominated by intellectual aspirations, particularly through the character of Philaminte, who is bent on acquiring knowledge at the expense of personal relationships. Molière's signature blend of farce, wit, and incisive dialogue illuminates the absurdity of elitism, while also exploring the tensions between traditional gender roles and the emergence of female intellect. The work reflects the broader literary context of the Enlightenment, challenging rigid norms of authority and education with humor and social critique. Molière, born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin in 1622, was a pioneering figure in French theater, celebrated for his sharp observations on human behavior and social norms. Raised in a prosperous family, he was exposed to the intricacies of Parisian society and its evolving intellectual climate. This background inspired him to pen works that fused satire with moral inquiry, making him a critical voice in literature. "The Learned Women" stands as a notable exemplar of his ability to navigate complex social themes with comedy and clarity. For readers seeking an engaging exploration of gender dynamics and intellectual dogma, "The Learned Women" offers both amusement and insight. Molière's keen social commentary resonates with contemporary audiences, making this play a timeless reflection on the pursuit of knowledge and the follies that accompany it. Essential for anyone interested in classic literature, this work invites contemplation on the relevance of its themes in today's world.