Tartuffe

Tartuffe (tahr-TEWF) is a duplicitous religious pretender who skillfully manipulates Orgon, a wealthy and gullible man. Tartuffe exploits Orgon's trust by flaunting his supposed piety, speaking of his hair shirts, scourges, and his almsgiving. Despite his outward display of devotion, Tartuffe is exposed as a hypocrite, known to some as a glutton and a winebibber. His scheming nature is evident when he seeks to marry Orgon's daughter, Mariane, and breaks her engagement to Valère. Tartuffe's villainy further unfolds as he attempts to seduce Orgon's wife, Elmire, by touching her inappropriately and proclaiming his love. When Elmire and their son, Damis, report his advances to Orgon, he refuses to believe them and astonishingly transfers his property to Tartuffe. However, Elmire's clever plan to reveal Tartuffe's true nature to Orgon succeeds when she arranges for her husband to witness Tartuffe's shameless behavior. Ultimately, Tartuffe's deceitful actions lead to his downfall when he is arrested by the king's order, marking him as a notorious rogue.

Orgon

Orgon (ohr-GOH[N]) is a wealthy and impressionable man who becomes ensnared by Tartuffe's false piety. Initially, Orgon adamantly defends Tartuffe against his family's accusations and doubts their claims of Tartuffe's inappropriate advances toward his wife, Elmire. He even goes so far as to disinherit his son, Damis, and give his estate to Tartuffe. Orgon's eyes are finally opened to the truth when, at Elmire's urging, he hides and overhears Tartuffe's second attempt to seduce her. Realizing he has been duped, Orgon attempts to expel Tartuffe from his home. Despite Tartuffe's attempt to evict Orgon by legal means, the tables are turned when Tartuffe is arrested, and Orgon's property is restored by the king.

Elmire

Elmire (ehl-MEER) is Orgon's perceptive and poised wife who remains aware of Tartuffe's deceit from the start. As Tartuffe attempts to seduce her, Elmire exercises restraint, choosing to handle the situation discreetly rather than causing a public scene. When her initial attempts to convey Tartuffe's true nature to Orgon fail, Elmire devises a cunning plan. She convinces Orgon to secretly witness Tartuffe's advances, which ultimately proves Tartuffe's treachery. Elmire's intelligence and composure play a pivotal role in exposing Tartuffe and saving her family from his schemes.

Dorine

Dorine (doh-REEN) is a clever and bold maid, serving as Mariane's attendant. Her outspoken nature and sharp wit make her a formidable opponent to Tartuffe's machinations. Dorine vehemently opposes Orgon's decision to marry Mariane to Tartuffe and actively advocates for her to marry Valère instead. She plays an instrumental role in mending the rift between Mariane and Valère, displaying her resourcefulness and loyalty. Dorine's humor and audacity add a lively dynamic to the play as she navigates the household's turmoil.

Mariane

Mariane (mah-ree-AHN) is Orgon's obedient yet distressed daughter, pressured into an unwanted engagement to Tartuffe. Deeply in love with Valère, she feels trapped between her filial duties and her heart's desires. Her initial reaction to her father's decree is one of despair, as she contemplates drastic measures rather than marry Tartuffe. Encouraged by Dorine, Mariane finds the courage to resist her father's wishes, and eventually, Orgon concedes, allowing her to wed Valère as intended.

Damis

Damis (dah-MEE) is Orgon's impulsive and fiery son, who is greatly perturbed by Tartuffe's presence and audacity. His rash temperament leads him to confront Tartuffe directly, particularly after witnessing Tartuffe's advances towards Elmire. However, his impetuousness backfires when Orgon, blinded by Tartuffe's facade, turns against him and disinherits him. Despite the setback, Damis remains steadfast in his opposition to Tartuffe and is eventually vindicated when Tartuffe's deceit is unveiled. His loyalty to his family is unwavering, even when misjudged.

Valère

Valère (vah-LEHR) is Mariane's devoted fiancé, whose engagement is jeopardized by Orgon's insistence on marrying her to Tartuffe. Distressed by the news, Valère momentarily doubts Mariane's affection. However, with Dorine's help, the lovers reconcile, reaffirming their commitment to each other. Valère's character is marked by his steadfast loyalty and willingness to assist Orgon in times of crisis, further highlighting his integrity compared to Tartuffe's deceitful nature. His love for Mariane, rooted in genuine affection, triumphs over the obstacles they face.

Madame Pernelle

Madame Pernelle (pehr-NEHL), Orgon's staunchly opinionated mother, initially champions Tartuffe's supposed virtue. She criticizes the household for their irreverence and frivolity, urging them to heed Tartuffe's moral guidance. Despite her family's warnings, Madame Pernelle remains adamant in her support of Tartuffe until faced with undeniable evidence of his treachery. Her eventual acknowledgment of Tartuffe's deception underscores the play's themes of blind faith and the eventual triumph of truth.

Cléante

Cléante (klay-AH[N]T) is Orgon's level-headed brother-in-law, who persistently advocates for reason over blind faith. He warns Orgon of Tartuffe's hypocrisy, emphasizing the distinction between true piety and ostentatious religion. Despite his logical arguments, Cléante's advice is initially dismissed. Yet, as the voice of reason, he remains pivotal in guiding Orgon toward clarity and redemption. In the end, Cléante encourages Orgon to express gratitude to the king and to hold no ill will toward Tartuffe, demonstrating his magnanimity and wisdom.

Monsieur Loyal

Monsieur Loyal (lwah-YAHL), a court bailiff, brings an eviction order against Orgon, declaring Tartuffe the rightful owner of Orgon's property. His name, "Loyal," is ironic, as he represents the treachery and legal manipulation employed by Tartuffe. Despite his duty-bound role, his actions facilitate the exposure of Tartuffe's scheme.

A Gentleman of the King's Guard

In the climactic resolution, a Gentleman of the King's Guard arrives with Tartuffe to arrest Orgon but instead reveals Tartuffe's true identity as a criminal. The Gentleman announces the king's pardon for Orgon and the restoration of his property, showcasing the king's justice. His intervention reinforces the theme of loyalty being justly rewarded.

The King

Though never appearing on stage, the King plays a crucial role in the narrative's resolution. His unseen presence underscores the moral order, as he pardons Orgon and apprehends Tartuffe based on Orgon's past loyalty in the civil wars. The King's actions affirm the play's message that fidelity and integrity are ultimately recognized and rewarded.

Filipote

Filipote (fee-lee-POHT), Madame Pernelle's maid, appears briefly in the play's opening. Her silent presence is overshadowed by Madame Pernelle's domineering personality, as she receives a slap and a harsh rebuke from her mistress. Filipote's role, though minor, contributes to the characterization of Madame Pernelle and the dynamics within Orgon's household.