Tartuffe Allusions & Cultural References

When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.

Religious References

Literary References

  • Oronte – there's a character named Oronte in Molière's Misanthrope (1.5.11)
  • Clitandre – a character in Molière's Misanthrope, and the protagonist in Corneille's play of the same name (1.5.11)

Historical References

  • Cato, Roman politician/writer (1.5.10)
  • Ariston (1.5.11)
  • Périandre – perhaps Periander, 2nd tyrant of Corinth (1.5.11)
  • Alcidamas – Greek sophist and rhetoritician, from 4th century B.C. (1.5.11)