The Imaginary Invalid ( le malade imaginaire)

By Molière, Constance Congdon, B.K. de Fabris, et al.

Book Overview

The Imaginary Invalid by Moli re is a comedic play that offers a satirical critique of the medical profession and societal hypochondria. This play takes readers on a humorous journey filled with exaggerated characters, witty dialogues, and absurd situations. The story revolves around the character of Argan, a wealthy hypochondriac who is obsessed with his health. Argan's obsession leads him to consult numerous doctors and engage in various medical treatments, much to the amusement of the audience. The play also explores themes of greed, deception, and the power dynamics within familial relationships. Through the clever portrayal of characters and their interactions, he exposes the flaws and pretenses of both the medical profession and individuals who exploit hypochondria for personal gain. Moli re's mastery of comedic writing and social commentary make this play a delightful exploration of the follies and foibles of human nature.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9358592028
• ISBN13: 9789358592023
• Release Date: January 2023
• Publisher: Double 9 Booksllp
• Length: 76 Pages
• Weight: 0.24 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 5.5" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Classic Moliere comedy/comedie

I can scarcely believe that, as an undergraduate college student at Bradley University, I read this in the original French, with comments that I made (sometimes in French, and sometimes in English) in the margins, as I explained what specific words might mean or what concepts might be relevant. This is a comedy, focusing on a hypochondriac, Argan. Making the original play more intriguing, the well known composer Marc-Antoine Charpentier provided music (or at least that's what my handwritten notes say in the book!). This is one of Moliere's better comedies (at least in my view). Ironically, he played Argan in the play, and died after one of the early performances! The version that I read in my French literature class was originally published in the 1960s (not at all clear in the volume as I look at it). . . .