Misanthrope Essay

Wylie Per. 1 Helen Lee

In Moliere’s play The Misanthrope, thoughtful laugher is utilized to provoke and elicit profound and essential meanings. The main protagonist Alceste and his love interest Celimene were purposefully shaped into highly emotional and responsive characters who could produce laughter that elicits deep thought. These two characters are polar opposites and highly spoken of in the courts and among the French aristocracy that their actions have the power to affect others and make a statement for the reader.

Alceste is approached by Oronte, Alceste’s rival who is also romantically interested in Celimene. Oronte asks Alceste to read his poems and give him a constructive criticism. Alceste disregarding Oronte’s desire for positive feedback attacks Oronte with a carping attitude. His satirical, rude and malicious criticisms are comical. Why would any man despite his animosity and jealousy of another man allow him to release so much fury? Moliere poses this question of balance before the readers. Alceste is shown unwisely bickering and ultimately losing the healthy balance of juggling emotions and sensibility.

Celimene like Alceste is an extreme character. Because extreme characters commit extreme actions, they often touch the lives of others either positively or negatively. In Celimene’s case, her misbehavior and unacceptable conduct bring her retribution and consequences she never expected to face. Due to her gossip and pretentious practices, her courters decide to abandon her and only two dedicated men are left behind. Celimene is unsure of which man to choose as a partner and asks for the decision of Eliante. Moliere utilizes Eliante as a vehicle of communication. Eliante puts down the offer, which may cause the audience to point fingers and mock Celimene, however, Moliere’s actual intention is to pose the question of one’s personal responsibility. If Celimene had cause havoc, she is responsible for resolving it.

Moliere had one simple purpose to the satire and comedy that were weaved into the play. He wanted people to realize the essence of having the balance between rationality and morals. If one loses the ability to control one’s hot and fiery emotions like Alceste, he or she is bound to become a clown mocked and isolated in society. Similarly, if one cannot determine right from wrong, they will receive consequences like Celimene had. Moliere manipulates laughter that is thoughtful instead of tragic and morbid instances in order to underline his overarching purpose that one should interact and think with a balance of mind.