In Molière's comedy The School for Husbands, the playwright deftly explores themes of control, personal freedom, and the folly of arrogance through the juxtaposition of two brothers, Sganarelle and Ariste. By embodying these contrasting characters, Molière presents a powerful narrative that both entertains and educates his audience on the dynamics of marriage and human relationships. The play cleverly uses humor and irony to highlight the pitfalls of rigidness and the virtues of tolerance.

The Comic Role of Sganarelle

Sganarelle, portrayed by Molière himself in the original production, serves as a focal point for much of the play's humor. This character, despite his stage dominance, is inherently unlikable, driven by ego and hypocrisy. His insistence on controlling Isabelle starkly contrasts with his brother Ariste’s more progressive approach to his relationship with Léonor. Sganarelle's attitude quickly establishes him as a caricature of male tyranny, with a comedic undertone that foreshadows his inevitable downfall.

Contrasting Attitudes: Sganarelle vs. Ariste

Ariste, the elder brother, embodies a modern sensibility, valuing freedom and mutual respect in relationships. Unlike Sganarelle, Ariste wears contemporary fashions and permits Léonor to indulge in personal pleasures, such as buying clothes, without restraint. His belief in a marriage based on equality is a direct challenge to Sganarelle's controlling nature. Ariste’s maturity allows him to recognize that only a freely given love can ensure happiness, making Sganarelle's mockery of his wisdom all the more ironic.

The Role of Fate and Irony

Fate plays an integral role in the narrative, orchestrating Sganarelle's missteps and ultimate failure. Valère, a reasonable suitor with genuine affection for Isabelle, inadvertently becomes an agent of Sganarelle's undoing. Valère's innocence and trust in others lead him to reveal his feelings to Sganarelle, who, in a comedic twist, becomes an unwilling facilitator in Valère's and Isabelle’s romance. Sganarelle's repeated blunders, born from his misplaced confidence, culminate in him delivering a love letter from Isabelle to Valère, oblivious to its true contents.

Irony in the Third Act

The play’s third act is rich with layers of irony, showcasing Sganarelle's failure to adapt and the resulting triumph of love. His stubbornness and vanity blind him to the truth, even as he arranges for a notary to prepare an ill-fated marriage contract. The notary, indifferent to the players’ intentions, unwittingly aids in the union of Valère and Isabelle, sealing Sganarelle’s comedic defeat. Meanwhile, Ariste's steadfast trust in Léonor is vindicated, as he dismisses Sganarelle's outlandish accusations with confidence in their relationship.

The Finale and Lessons Learned

The comedy concludes with Sganarelle's comeuppance, as his machinations unravel and true love prevails. With Valère and Isabelle married, the notary is free to officiate for Ariste and Léonor, underscoring the themes of trust and respect. Lisette, Léonor’s servant, delivers the play’s closing lines, emphasizing the moral that men should learn the value of respecting women’s autonomy. Her words encapsulate the play’s message, affirming that only through such respect can one find true marital happiness, while those like Sganarelle are doomed to dissatisfaction.