The Misanthrope

Victoria Pallares

Mr. Asher-A.P Literature

01.17.12

Period: 3

The Misanthrope

Moliere, author of the Misanthrope utilizes the idea of thoughtful laughter and conveys it in his writing. The use of a significant character, Celimene portrays this “thoughtful laughter” so it is recognizable to the audience. Moliere supports this idea with satire and irony so it can be applies to reality.

Celiemene is a confident character. She is the symbol of desire. Though she seems content and happy, she has her faults. She feeds on gossip and criticism. She has four suitors who admire her deeply: Clitandre, Acaste, Oronte, and Alceste. Alceste is the man who truly wants her love and devotion. But, Celimene’s loyalty is only to herself. Her persona is a flirty woman with little concern for others. Thoughtful laughter comes into play when Alceste is speaking to Celimene of her possible affairs. She continuously says that she is not to blame, that it’s not her fault she is gorgeous and sarcastically says that she should take a stick to make them go away. At firs the audience laughs, then realizes that in society, those who think they are above others often act this way.

Alceste is the protagonist in this play. He is not the happiest man. He is known as someone who does not accept the way the people of society act and their faults. Alceste yearns for Celimene’s love, the way he loves her. Alceste responds to Celimene’s statement with saying that she gives each of her suitor’s hope, which is why they continue to pursue her affection. Alceste also says that it is not her looks and attractiveness that he is complaining about, but that the way she goes about things and how she charms others because in the end she is just leading on others. The thoughtful laughter is the criticism of Celimene’s ways and how Alceste speaks to her. Ironically, at the end of the play Celimene ends up with nobody and Alceste is running from society and it is the only way he can find peace within himself. After the humor, it makes you reflect on your experiences and knowledge.

Thoughtful laughter provides both comedy and lessons. The objective is to learn. Alceste and Celimene are the characters of this play that portray “thoughtful laughter” Moliere makes you laugh and in a way; laugh at human nature and society. The misanthrope as a whole is filled with irony and satire that complete the concept and make you think of the actual message. The themes of this play are more teachings and reflections. Alcaste and Celimene symbolize certain people in society.