The Jealousy of le Barbouillé (La Jalousie du Barbouillé)   By: Unknown (1622-1673)

The Jealousy of le Barbouillé, a play penned by an unknown author, takes us on a compelling journey into the depths of human emotions, particularly delving into the treacherous terrain of jealousy. Set in a quaint little French village, the story revolves around the life of a somewhat simple-minded character named Barbouillé.

The play opens with Barbouillé's seemingly idyllic life with his beautiful and devoted wife, Colette. However, a chance encounter with a debonair nobleman at the local fair triggers a whirlwind of emotions within Barbouillé, igniting the flames of jealousy in his once tranquil heart.

As the plot unfolds, we witness Barbouillé's transformation from a gullible and content husband to a man consumed with suspicion and paranoia. His naiveté is exploited by the mischievous villain who orchestrates a series of deceptive events, enhancing Barbouillé's jealousy to unimaginable heights.

Amidst the chaos, the play cleverly incorporates comedic elements that lighten the intensity of the story. Moments of slapstick humor and witty dialogue provide much-needed respite from the mounting tension. The author skillfully strikes a balance between dramatic twists and humorous interludes, keeping the audience engaged throughout.

One of the play's strongest aspects lies in its exploration of the human psyche. The author expertly captures the destructive nature of jealousy, portraying it as a catalyst for the protagonist's downfall. Barbouillé's descent into madness acts as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the perils of succumbing to baseless suspicions and irrational emotions.

Though the author remains unknown, their work showcases a great understanding of human behavior and emotion. The characters, while slightly exaggerated, reflect the fears and insecurities that exist within us all. Their struggles resonate with readers, forcing us to confront our own demons and contemplate the consequences of jealousy.

Sparse and effective, the play's dialogue carries the weight of its message. Each word serves a purpose, fostering an intimate connection between the audience and the characters. The simplicity of the language also contributes to the timeless quality of the story, ensuring its relevance even in contemporary times.

However, the play's abrupt ending leaves readers yearning for closure. The fate of the characters' relationships and Barbouillé's ultimate redemption or demise remains shrouded in uncertainty. While this deliberate choice may be an artistic decision, it may also leave readers feeling somewhat unsatisfied and craving more resolution.

In conclusion, The Jealousy of le Barbouillé is a remarkable exploration of the dangers of jealousy. While the author's identity remains a mystery, their work showcases a profound understanding of human nature. It is a play that embraces the complexities of emotions, serving as a reminder of the destruction that jealousy can wreak upon our lives.

First Page:

BAR. Everybody must acknowledge that I am the most unfortunate of men! I have a wife who plagues me to death; and who, instead of bringing me comfort and doing things as I like them to be done, makes me swear at her twenty times a day. Instead of keeping at home, she likes gadding about, eating good dinners, and passing her time with people of I don't know what description. Ah! poor Barbouillé, how much you are to be pitied! But she must be punished. Suppose you killed her?... It would do no good, for you would be hung afterwards... Continue reading book >>