By: Molière (1622-1673)
George Dandin: or The Abashed Husband by Molière is a classic comedy that tells the story of a wealthy peasant who marries into a wealthy family, only to find himself constantly humiliated and mistreated by his wife and her aristocratic relatives. As George Dandin struggles to assert his dignity and demand respect, he becomes a comical yet sympathetic figure, caught in a web of social expectations and class tensions.
Molière's sharp wit and keen observations of human nature shine through in this play, as he skewers the hypocrisy and pretensions of the upper class while also highlighting the fragility of George Dandin's pride and the complexities of his relationships. The dialogue is witty and fast-paced, with clever wordplay and humorous misunderstandings driving the plot forward.
Although George Dandin's predicament may seem absurd at times, his struggles resonate with universal themes of power dynamics, social status, and the quest for self-worth. Molière expertly balances satire and sentiment, creating a comedy that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Overall, George Dandin: or The Abashed Husband is a delightful and engaging read that offers a window into the societal norms and values of 17th-century France, while also delivering timeless insights into the human condition. Fans of classic literature and comedy alike will enjoy this play for its wit, humor, and enduring relevance. Book Description: "The treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle having been ratified ... and peace being assured ... Louis XIV resolved to give a festival in his favorite gardens of Versailles. Moliere's comedy, George Dandin, formed the chief entertainment." The plot: A wife comes home rather late, finds the door shut, and threatens to kill herself if her husband does not let her in. She pretends to do so; the good man rushes out quite terrified; the wife, meanwhile, sneaks in, and he is in his turn locked out. Add in her idiot parents and this should be the usual madcap fun.
- Summary by Translator and ToddHW
Cast list:
George Dandin, a rich farmer, husband to Angelique: MajorToast
Monsieur De Sotenville, a country gentleman, Angelique's father: ToddHW
Clitandre, in love with Angelique: Tomas Peter
Lubin, a peasant, Clitandre's servant: alanmapstone
Colin, George Dandin's servant: Stefan Von Blon
Angelique, George Dandin's wife: Bhavya
Madam De Sotenville: Sonia
Claudine, Angelique's maid: Leanne Yau
Stage Directions: TJ Burns
Edited by: ToddHW
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