Molière's 'The Learned Women' is a masterpiece that showcases his genius in the realms of comedy, satire, and social commentary. The play centers around the efforts of a man to rid his house of learned women, who have taken over and turned the household upside down with their desire for knowledge and independence. With its witty dialogue and clever wordplay, the play reflects Molière's astute observations on the changing roles of women in society during the 17th century. 'The Learned Women' is a prime example of Molière's ability to entertain and educate his audience simultaneously. Its timeless appeal lies in its exploration of gender dynamics and intellectual freedom, making it a valuable piece of literature for readers interested in both classic drama and feminist themes. Molière, known for his biting satire and keen insight into human nature, was inspired to write 'The Learned Women' by the cultural shifts occurring in France during his time. His sharp wit and clever storytelling continue to captivate audiences centuries later, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest playwrights in history.

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.