Analysis Of Tartuffe

1. A. Shakespeare is known for writing in blank verse. While similar to iambic pentameter, blank verse does not rhyme. Shakespeare’s style of writing still puts emphasis on certain syllables like iambic pentameter does, but sounds more natural because the verses do not all rhyme. B. In the play Twelfth Night Shakespeare places an emphasis on identity that raises questions about homosexuality. Since homosexuality was not widely socially acceptable during Shakespearian times, it is extremely interesting that Shakespeare chose to make such a statement regarding sexuality. Through this play, Shakespeare makes a bold statement regarding whether or not gender actually matters since these it can easily be warped by a change in clothes. For instance,

Characterization is the way that the author portrays a certain character through different elements. These elements include the characters thoughts, actions, words, how the character interacts with other characters and what other characters say about that character. The character Tartuffe in the play Tartuffe can initially be described as a very complex person because other characters have mixed opinions when describing him prior to meeting him. Some describe Tartuffe as a pious man whose “presence casts the devil out” while others describe him as a hypocrite who cannot be trusted (Moliere 1.1.160). During the time when Moliere wrote Tartuffe the Roman Catholic Church had an enormous influence over France. Moliere more than likely wrote this comedy of manners regarding those who claim to be devout Catholics, but then act adversely. He created mixed opinions about Tartuffe before revealing Tartuffe’s true nature as a “hypocrite [who] merely flaunts” to show readers how convincing religious hypocrites tend to be (Moliere 1.1.74). While Tartuffe represents religious hypocrites, those who are unable to recognize this represent the majority of society who are naïve enough to believe such hypocrisy and will listen to anybody who claims to be a religious staple. Furthermore, Tartuffe’s true character (and not the character he is acting as) is revealed when he says, “I’m having you arrested” to Orgon who had naively provided him with food, shelter and much more (Moliere

A. George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion is a representation of the literary movement “realism” that took place in the late 19th century. This movement can be described more as an attitude of playwrights who sought to “challenge [audiences], rather than please” (Puncher). Factors influencing this attitude include: “new technologies, scientific advancement, urbanism, the proliferation of nationalist movements, changing class relationships, an accelerating economic transition from agriculture to industry, and new theories of human nature” (Puncher). Romanticism inspired serious playwrights to write more controversial plays that were sometimes viewed as antagonizing to audiences. These plays challenges social norms and greatly influenced the culture during the 19th