Five Classic French Plays by Wallace Fowlie: A Journey Through French Theater

Five Classic French Plays

by Wallace Fowlie

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1007 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	304 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

French theater has a rich and storied history, boasting a wealth of iconic plays that have captivated audiences for centuries. Among the most renowned French playwrights are Pierre Corneille, Jean Racine, Molière, Pierre de Marivaux, and Pierre Beaumarchais. These playwrights have crafted timeless works that explore the human condition with wit, passion, and profound insights.

In his book "Five Classic French Plays," Wallace Fowlie presents a captivating collection of these iconic works, offering a comprehensive to the world of French theater. This anthology includes:

• The Cid by Pierre Corneille
• Phèdre by Jean Racine
• Tartuffe by Molière
• The Game of Love and Chance by Pierre de Marivaux
• The Marriage of Figaro by Pierre Beaumarchais

Each play represents a distinct era and style of French theater, showcasing the evolution of dramatic conventions and the changing social and cultural landscape of France. Through these plays, we encounter a diverse cast of characters, from noble heroes and tragic heroines to cunning schemers and witty lovers.

The Cid: A Tale of Honor and Conflict

Pierre Corneille's The Cid (1636) is considered one of the greatest French tragedies. The play tells the story of Rodrigue, a young knight torn between his love for Chimène and his duty to avenge his father's honor. Corneille masterfully explores the conflict between personal desire and societal expectations, creating a compelling and emotionally charged drama.

Phèdre: A Tragedy of Forbidden Love

Jean Racine's Phèdre (1677) is a classic example of French classical tragedy. The play centers on Phèdre, the queen of Athens, who falls deeply in love with her stepson, Hippolytus. Racine delves into the complexities of forbidden love and the destructive consequences of passion, crafting a powerful and moving tragedy.

Tartuffe: A Satire of Religious Hypocrisy

Molière's Tartuffe (1664) is a biting satire of religious hypocrisy. The play follows the wealthy Orgon, who falls under the spell of Tartuffe, a pious but deceitful imposter. Molière exposes the dangers of excessive piety and the gullibility of those who are easily swayed by religious rhetoric.

The Game of Love and Chance: A Comedy of Deception

Pierre de Marivaux's The Game of Love and Chance (1730) is a delightful comedy of deception. The play tells the story of two young couples who switch roles in order to test the sincerity of their affections. Marivaux explores the nature of love, the importance of authenticity, and the complexities of social class.

The Marriage of Figaro: A Critique of the Aristocracy

Pierre Beaumarchais's The Marriage of Figaro (1784) is a witty and subversive comedy that critiques the French aristocracy. The play follows the cunning servant Figaro as he outwits his master, Count Almaviva, and exposes the hypocrisy and corruption of the upper classes. Beaumarchais's play was a precursor to the French Revolution, and its themes of social justice and equality resonated with the masses.

Wallace Fowlie's "Five Classic French Plays" is an essential collection for anyone interested in exploring the richness and diversity of French theater. These iconic works offer a glimpse into the minds of some of the greatest playwrights in history, showcasing the power of drama to entertain, provoke thought, and illuminate the human experience.

Whether you are a seasoned theater-goer or a newcomer to the world of French drama, Fowlie's anthology provides a captivating journey through the history of French theater, offering a timeless treasure to be enjoyed by generations to come.

Five Classic French Plays

by Wallace Fowlie

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1007 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	304 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE