Literature Recording

Frederick Douglass

• Importance: Frederick Douglass is a significant figure often studied in February, a month dedicated to recognizing African American history.

• Literacy:

  • Douglass understood the critical nature of reading, as enslaved people were generally denied such education.

  • His ability to read provided him with a way to escape the oppression he faced.

  • The notion that knowledge was forbidden was clear—if there was a restriction, there was a reason behind it.

Tartuffe

• Author Background:

  • The author of "Tartuffe" is a well-educated individual who initially pursued law but shifted to a career in theater, a less prestigious profession of that era.

  • Recognized for his brilliant writing, acting, and directing skills.

• Characterization:

  • Tartuffe: A con artist posing as a holy man and represents religious hypocrisy, mocking the established religious leaders.

  • Doreen: A servant character who speaks out against her employers, challenging societal norms by pointing out foolish behaviors.

  • Orgon: A character who is duped by Tartuffe, initially praising him until circumstances reveal Tartuffe's true intentions towards his family.

Themes in Tartuffe

• Religious Hypocrisy: The play addresses themes of deception and false piety, where characters portray themselves as virtuous while secretly harboring immoral intentions.

• Social Critique:

  • The establishment and the church are criticized through the lens of Tartuffe’s manipulation of Orgon and his family.

  • The conflict between appearance and reality serves as a central theme, illustrated by Orgon’s blind trust in Tartuffe.

• Resolution: The play culminates in a twist of fate where the king intervenes, exposing Tartuffe's lies and restoring order to Orgon's household.

Plot Development

• Character Dynamics: The interactions between Doreen, Valere, and Mary Anne highlight the absurdity of their situations and the impact of Tartuffe's deception.

• Climax and Revelation: Doreen's plan to expose Tartuffe leads to the pivotal moment where Orgon finally sees Tartuffe’s true nature, changing his perspective and leading to cohesion among the characters.

Literary Devices

• Satire: Molière employs satire to critique social norms, particularly the hypocrisy in religious practices.

• Symbolism:

  • Tartuffe symbolizes the false front of piety manipulating others for personal gain.

  • The 'strong box' represents hidden truths and the potential destruction that comes from misplaced trust.

Conclusion of the Play

• King’s Intervention: The conclusion features a resolution facilitated by the king, who sees through Tartuffe’s deceit, leading to the latter's arrest.

• Happily Ever After: The play ends positively, aligning with traditional comedic resolutions where harmony is restored, and characters are united in marriage and reconciliation.