Readers and analysts can study Tarfutte as a drama that revolves around the subject of hypocrisy. It remains a fruitful theme for theatre since it presents a form of contradiction between religious expectations and what specific individuals preach and believe in (Becker). Additionally, playwrights, poets, and artists can expand the subject accordingly to present diverse narrations, views, and acts that can encourage the targeted individuals to change their relationships with hypocrites in their societies.
In the selected play, it is evident that some people will gravitate toward extremism. The main factors that can trigger such a choice include the desire to experience religious breakthroughs, achieve personal goals much faster, and establish meaningful relations with pious individuals. Orgon’s life and experiences appear to support this form of explanation in the work. On the other hand, some maintain balanced beliefs and disregard the messages different leaders present. They decide to do so to overcome any challenge that might emerge from their association with hypocritical preachers or community members (Molière 58). Some might also strike a balance between their religious ideas and secular views. Orgon’s son, Damis, appears to remain skeptical and ready to prove that Tarfutte had ill intentions for the family.
In the play, it is notable that the spiritual remains focused and put their faith in those who can seek divine intervention or authority. This scenario emerges when Orgon finds himself under Tarfutte’s manipulation. Most of the family members are opposed since they are aware of Tarfutte’s pretense and motive. The secular is seen relating with the religious in a friendly manner. However, they remain keen to provide their sincere insights and opinions about the unfolding events. For instance, Damis tries to prove that Tarfutte might be having some negative aims from the family. Nonetheless, Tarfutte uses reverse psychology to influence the decisions Orgon makes (Becker). While the secular members of the society respect the aims of the religious, they remain honest but skeptical. Such a practice appears to affect the nature of the existing relationship in the play.
This story has several strengths that make it enjoyable and worth reading. For example, Orgon manages to secure both his family and possession before the end of the play. Tarfutte is also arrested for most of the crimes he had committed in the past. Valère never marries Tarfutte since all the other family members were against the move. The outstanding weakness emerges when the drama introduces King Louis XIV as a likely source of intervention in the unfolding drama (Molière 75). This portrayal makes the story less unconvincing while limiting the roles of the major characters whose actions could have still led to Tarfutte’s demise.
Although Tarfutte is an entertaining drama, the king’s sudden introduction appears unconvincing since the whole affair revolves around Orgon’s family. The author overlooks the fact that a king is a busy person who focuses on serious issues and developments in the entire state (Becker). The portrayal of the unexpected intervention by the King is a form of over-privileged that is only aimed at benefiting Orgon. Despite the nature of these gaps, the reader realizes that the author presents a balanced view of the entire story and its development (Molière 67). After Orgon escapes the possible dispossession of his property and disgrace, Mariane and Valère manage to marry and overcome the predicaments arising from his union with Tarfutte.
Works Cited
Becker, Jules. “Molière’s ‘Tarfutte’ still rings true, 350 years later.” Jewish Journal, 2017, Web.
Molière. Tarfutte. University of Southern Maine Press, 2018. Web.