The Learned Women

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.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known by his stage name Molière (1622–1673), stands as one of the greatest masters of comedy in Western literature. Born to a prosperous upholstery family, Molière found his passion in the theatre. In 1643, he became the leader of the theatrical company called Illustre-Théâtre which eventually went bankrupt, leading him to spend several years touring the provinces to evade debtors. His experiences with provincial audiences honed his skills as an actor, director, and playwright. It was in 1658 that Molière's troupe returned to Paris and began to gain favor with King Louis XIV, enjoying royal patronage.

His oeuvre consists of comedies that satirize the pretensions and hypocrisies of his society. 'The Learned Women' (Les Femmes savantes, 1672) is one such play that critiques the pedantic and pretentious nature of the intellectual pretensions that were apparent in the salons of his time. Molière's literary style blends farce and satire, employing comedic devices such as irony, and wit to lampoon his subjects in a manner that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. His works have been extensively adapted and translated, and his profound influence on the French language has led to its occasional designation as 'the language of Molière'. His contributions to theatre are celebrated in the annual Molière Awards, France's national theatre awards.