Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known popularly by his stage name Molïre, is regarded as one of the masters of French comedic drama. When Molïre began acting in Paris there were two well-established theatrical companies, those of the Ht̥el de Bourgogne and the Marais. Joining these theatrical companies would have been impossible for a new member of the acting profession like Molïre and thus he performed with traveling troupes of actors in the French provinces. It was during this period that Molïre would refine his skills as both an actor and a writer. Eventually his reputation would increase allowing him to return to Paris where he gained the patronage of Philippe I, Duke of Orlǎns, the brother of the King of France, Louis XIV. In this volume one of Molïre's most popular works is presented, one in which the author draws upon his bourgeoisie upbringing in 17th century France. "The Misanthrope" is a comedy of errors which satirizes the hypocrisies of French aristocratic society. The story is concerned with the relationship between Alceste, a French gentleman who laments the superficiality of society life, and Cľim̈ne, a woman who epitomizes the courtly manners that Alceste despises. This edition is translated by Henri Van Laun, includes an introduction by Eleanor F. Jourdain, and a biographical afterword

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