The Misanthrope

A poet's disdain for societal hypocrisy leads to a personal crusade, yet his love for a woman complicates his quest for authenticity in The Misanthrope.

In The Misanthrope, the protagonist Alceste is a poet disillusioned with the superficiality of French society. He finds himself surrounded by individuals who engage in empty gestures and insincere flattery, which he finds repugnant. His disdain for the social norms of his time drives him to embark on a personal crusade against the hypocrisy he perceives in those around him. Alceste's journey is both a critique of the societal values of the seventeenth century and a reflection on the complexities of human relationships.

Alceste's quest for authenticity leads him into a tangled web of love and conflict, particularly concerning his feelings for Célimène, a woman who embodies the very traits he despises. As he grapples with his emotions for her, he must confront the possibility that she may be the ultimate representation of the deceit he loathes. This internal struggle raises questions about love, honesty, and the nature of human interaction, making The Misanthrope a timeless exploration of the human condition.

Written in verse, Molière's work remains a sharp and witty commentary on the manners and morals of his time. The play, first performed in 1666, showcases the author's masterful use of language and satire. Roger McGough's adaptation brings a contemporary touch to this classic, ensuring that the themes of The Misanthrope resonate with modern audiences while maintaining the essence of Molière's original vision.