Misanthrope Essay

Ivy Arbolado

Period 1

The Misanthrope Essay: “Thoughtful Laughter”

In the play “The Misanthrope,” written by Moliere, “thoughtful laughter,” is conveyed by the unpredictable and abnormal actions of an overcritical man known as Alceste. When it comes to Celimene, his current lover, his pessimistic and untrusting ways slowly diminish during his quest to win over her heart. He finds faith and loyalty in others throughout his journey, which he too couldn’t fathom.

Alceste’s love for Celimene was indescribable. His love deemed true to her, as well as many other suitors. Celimene had given her love away to several men, without remorse. With this information, Alceste was bitter, yet he still desired to be with her. He even asked for her hand in marriage. Even though he sees the negativity in most, ironically he could not in her. He put his faith in her that she will one day pick him as his only suitor, therefore awakening humor in the reader.

While forcing Celimene to make her decision of who will be her only love, Alceste grew tired of waiting, as well as Oronte, the other suitor who Alceste rudely belittled after seeing his poetic works. Both men developed a friendship with each other given that they both respect each other’s love for Celimene. Alceste feels loyal to Oronte and they both agree that whomever she picks, the other will back off politely. When Celimene finally agreed to be wed to Alceste, he rejected her after talking to Oronte, realizing that he no longer wants her. The irony in this situation is humorous because Alceste’s motives change due to a change of loyalty and his friendship with Oronte, the man who he once despised.

Alceste’s love for Celimene changed his perspective of others as well as himself. His overcritical and pessimistic ways was overshadowed by his compassion for Celimene and his loyalty and friendship with Oronte. He learned to have faith in others whom he thought would never be worthy of his loyalty, thus evoking “thoughtful laughter.”