The Misanthrope

by Moliere

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Summary

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Alceste, often labeled a misanthrope by his peers, embraces the title with a stubborn pride. This trait leads to frequent clashes with his friend Philinte, who casually accepts the superficial customs of their time. When Philinte greets a mere acquaintance with undue warmth, Alceste accuses him of hypocrisy, pointing out Philinte's shallow familiarity with the man.

The Lawsuit and Love Dilemma

Philinte reminds Alceste about his impending lawsuit, advising him to soften his abrasive demeanor. While his adversaries in the case diligently work to win favor, Alceste persists in offending everyone around him, which could jeopardize his chances. Philinte also teases Alceste about his infatuation with Célimène, a societal leader known for her insincerity. Even Alceste concedes that his affection defies logical explanation.

An Unsolicited Literary Critique

Their discussion is interrupted by Oronte, who visits Alceste with a request. Oronte, polished and refined, seeks Alceste’s opinion on a sonnet he composed. Despite his initial reluctance, Alceste's honesty prevails, and he criticizes the poem's lack of quality. Offended, Oronte's reaction hints at a duel, though the dispute remains unresolved.

Confronting Célimène

Alceste visits Célimène, immediately chastising her for her insincere and frivolous behavior. He criticizes her tendency to disparage others in their absence while showering them with compliments in person. This duplicity is something Alceste finds particularly distasteful.

Society's Caustic Conversations

A servant announces the arrival of several visitors, including Éliante. Much to Alceste's chagrin, the group engages in prolonged chatter, delighting in naming acquaintances while Célimène offers scathing remarks. Éliante's kindness and sensibility starkly contrast with Célimène's sharp wit, though the latter's brilliance overshadows her. The men, eager to remain in Célimène's company, vow to outstay one another, with Alceste determined to be the last to leave.

Legal Troubles

The arrival of a guard interrupts the gathering, summoning Alceste to court. He learns the authorities have caught wind of his quarrel with Oronte, intending to prevent a duel. Defiantly, Alceste insists that only a royal command could compel him to flatter Oronte's poetry, as he is led away.

Arsinoé’s Stern Warning

Arsinoé, who prides herself on virtue, visits Célimène, advising her that her conduct has become scandalous. Célimène mocks Arsinoé's rigid demeanor. Seeking a private audience with Alceste, with whom she harbors feelings, Arsinoé attempts to console him over his ill-fated love. Despite acknowledging Célimène’s unsuitability, Alceste’s affection endures.

Developing Affections

Meanwhile, Éliante and Philinte discuss Alceste's tendency to alienate friends with his candor. Philinte recounts Alceste’s blunt honesty during the tribunal, affirming the poor quality of Oronte's verses. Éliante and Philinte discover a growing fondness for one another, with Philinte hopeful that he might become her suitor.

The Letter Scandal

Alceste receives a disparaging letter, allegedly from Célimène, maligning him. Although hesitant at first, Célimène admits to writing it, surprised by Alceste’s outrage. Other suitors arrive, each brandishing similar letters, revealing they have all been mocked and insulted.

Alceste’s Decision

Alceste considers proposing to Éliante but reconsiders, recognizing his motives might be driven by revenge against Célimène. Disillusioned, he resolves to retreat from society and live in seclusion.

Célimène's Justification and Aftermath

Confronted by her suitors, Célimène explains her letters were a break from polite pretense, expressing her true thoughts. The suitors, appalled by her bluntness, deem such behavior unforgivable and depart, vowing never to return.

Final Choices

Alceste alone remains, and Célimène is momentarily touched. When he reiterates his commitment and proposes, she almost agrees until he suggests they live in seclusion. Unable to abandon the society she cherishes, Célimène declines. Resolute in his misanthropy, Alceste leaves, vowing to withdraw from the world. Meanwhile, Philinte and Éliante, more balanced in their perspectives, decide to marry.

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