Tartuffe Commentary

Men have dominated society ever since the beginning of mankind. They can be compared to peacocks; they may seem ordinary at first glance but will ruffle their feathers and puff up in order to seem bigger and better than others. While a peacock does this to attract a mate, a man acts similarly to show others who’s boss and how they’re not to be messed with. When their reputation is at stake, they will do whatever it takes to have the upper hand. In Act II Scene II of Tartuffe, Moliére characterizes Tartuffe as a commanding and correcting figure, thus illustrating how men will do anything to keep up appearances and their reputation. Moliére first shows a man using the class system and religion to assert power over subordinates.