Molière’s classic comedy follows the final days of the infamous aristocrat Don Juan and his pious, terrified valet, Sganarelle. Unlike earlier versions of the myth, this protagonist operates as an intellectual atheist who views marriage as a temporary inconvenience and religious devotion as a mask for cowardice. The narrative tracks Juan through botched seductions, a confrontation with his father, and the cold-blooded manipulation of his creditors. Throughout these encounters, he deconstructs the moral expectations of seventeenth-century France, culminating in his defiant invitation to the statue of a man he murdered.
This edition is intended for readers of classic drama and those specifically interested in Richard Wilbur’s rhythmic, rhyming translation of French verse. Students of philosophy and literature read it to analyze the clash between rationalist skepticism and traditional theology. The reader gains a clear perspective on the hypocrisies of the ruling class and a dark meditation on whether a commitment to personal freedom justifies the destruction of others. It provides a sharp, unsentimental look at the consequences of total social defiance.
Insights from Don Juan
“L'hypocrisie est un vice à la mode, et tous les vices à la mode passent pour vertus.”
Dom Juan n'est pas juste un dragueur. C'est un monstre de logique qui utilise la raison pour détruire tout le monde autour de lui.
“Le ciel, Dom Juan, le ciel !”
Sganarelle est coincé entre sa morale et son besoin de manger. Il déteste son maître mais ne peut pas s'empêcher de l'admirer un peu.
“Tout le plaisir de l'amour est dans le changement.”
Le mariage est une blague pour lui. Il collectionne les femmes comme des trophées de chasse sans jamais ressentir la moindre culpabilité.
“Je te le donne pour l'amour de l'humanité.”
La scène du pauvre montre que Dom Juan respecte l'argent plus que Dieu. Il essaie d'acheter une conscience avec un louis d'or.
- Published
- 1665
- Publisher
- Ecco
- ISBN
- 9780156013109
- Language
- FR
