Moliere

Moliére’s play Tartuffe gives us many examples of Dorine’s logical intelligence and wit. Throughout the play, she is able to use these traits in order to transcend the class restrictions enforced upon her by those of a higher socio-economic status. However good her intentions and thoughts be, Dorine’s socio-economic status often prevents her from influencing those of a higher status in the play. >From the very beginning of the play, Molié…

…also includes an insult for Dorine, which is also not directed towards her, but rather towards Elmire- a member of the social elite. Madam Pernelle then goes on to take her frustration towards Dorine by slapping and insulting her own serving girl before exiting. Since she could not best Dorine in conversation or thought, she used this demonstration of authority to a girl in the same class as Dorine to prove her authority. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography**