AI-Generated Graded Readers
Masaru Uchida, Gifu University
Publication webpage:
https://www1.gifu-u.ac.jp/~masaru/a1/ai-generated_graded_readers.html
Publication date: March 16, 2026
About This Edition
This book is a simplified English adaptation created for extensive reading practice.
The text was generated using ChatGPT and prepared for intermediate English learners as part of an educational project.
Target reading level: CEFR A2-B1
This edition aims to support fluency development through accessible vocabulary, expanded narration, and improved readability while preserving the original story structure.
Source Text
Original work: Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite
Author: Molière
English Translation: Curtis Hidden Page
Source: Project Gutenberg
https://www.gutenberg.org/
Full text available at:
https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/2027/pg2027.txt
Both the original work and its English translation are in the public domain.
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The source text is provided by Project Gutenberg under its public domain policy.
Users should refer to the Project Gutenberg License for full terms:
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This adaptation was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence and edited for readability and educational purposes.
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Molière, Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite (Simplified Edition, Adapted and Simplified by ChatGPT)
Part 1
Dramatis Personae
Madame Pernelle — Orgon’s mother. A severe old woman who believes Tartuffe is a holy man.
Orgon — Master of the house. A wealthy man who has become completely devoted to Tartuffe.
Elmire — Orgon’s second wife. Calm, intelligent, and observant.
Damis — Orgon’s son. Hot-tempered and open in his hatred of Tartuffe.
Mariane — Orgon’s daughter. Gentle and obedient. She loves Valere.
Cleante — Brother of Elmire. A thoughtful man who speaks with reason and balance.
Tartuffe — A man who pretends to be deeply religious. In truth he is a hypocrite.
Dorine — Mariane’s maid. Clever, bold, and sharp-tongued.
M. Loyal — A bailiff.
A Police Officer
Flipotte — Servant of Madame Pernelle.
The scene is in Orgon’s house in Paris.
MADAME PERNELLE
Come, Flipotte, come with me. I have stayed here too long already. Let us go at once.
ELMIRE
Mother, please do not hurry so much. Let me at least walk with you to the door.
MADAME PERNELLE
No, daughter-in-law. Stay where you are. I do not need your polite attention.
ELMIRE
But we only wish to show you respect. Why are you leaving in such anger?
MADAME PERNELLE
Because I cannot bear the way things are done in this house. Nothing here is as it should be. No one listens to me. Everyone talks, everyone argues, and there is noise from morning until night. It is complete disorder.
DORINE
If I might say—
MADAME PERNELLE
You might say nothing! You are only a servant girl, yet you chatter more than anyone. You speak as if you were the mistress of the house.
DAMIS
Grandmother, I only wished—
MADAME PERNELLE
And you! You foolish boy. I have told your father a hundred times that you will bring him nothing but trouble.
MARIANE
But grandmother, I think—
MADAME PERNELLE
Ah yes, my quiet little granddaughter. You look so gentle and silent that one might think butter would not melt in your mouth. But I do not trust that quiet face. The quietest waters are often the deepest.
ELMIRE
Mother, surely you judge us too harshly.
MADAME PERNELLE
Your conduct is not what it should be. A mother must set a good example. Your husband’s first wife did much better. You dress too richly and care too much for appearances. A modest woman has no need to shine like a princess.
CLEANTE
Madam, allow me to say—
MADAME PERNELLE
Sir, I respect you because you are my daughter-in-law’s brother. But if I were my son, I would beg you not to visit this house. Your ideas about life are not proper for decent people.
CLEANTE
You speak very frankly.
MADAME PERNELLE
Yes, that is my way. I never hide my thoughts.
DAMIS
Your friend Tartuffe is fortunate indeed if he finds such a strong defender.
MADAME PERNELLE
He deserves it. He is a holy man. You should all listen to him with respect.
DAMIS
Respect? Must we allow that man to rule this house? Must we ask his permission before we laugh or enjoy ourselves?
DORINE
If we listen to him, everything we do becomes a crime. He criticizes every action.
MADAME PERNELLE
And everything he criticizes deserves criticism. He wishes to guide you toward heaven. My son is wise to trust him.
DAMIS
Nothing will make me tolerate him. I hate the way he behaves. I tell you openly that one day there will be a terrible quarrel between us.
DORINE
And it is shameful that this stranger now acts like master of the house. When he arrived, he had hardly shoes for his feet. Now he judges everything and commands everyone.
MADAME PERNELLE
Heaven sent him here to guide you all.
DORINE
Guide us? In my opinion he is nothing but a hypocrite.
MADAME PERNELLE
What bold speech from a servant!
DORINE
I would not trust him for a moment. Nor that servant of his either.
MADAME PERNELLE
I know nothing about the servant, but I know the master is a saint. If he scolds you, it is because he wishes to save your souls.
DORINE
Then why does he forbid visitors from coming here? Is heaven offended by a friendly visit?
MADAME PERNELLE
These visits bring noise and gossip. Carriages at the door, servants in the street—such things create scandal.
CLEANTE
Madam, people will talk no matter what we do. If we feared every rumor, we would never see our friends again.
DORINE
Indeed, the people who gossip most are usually those whose own behavior is worst.
MADAME PERNELLE
Enough of these arguments. I know a very virtuous lady who disapproves of the company you keep.
DORINE
Yes, she has become very virtuous now that she is old. When she was young and beautiful she behaved quite differently.
MADAME PERNELLE
There! You see the sort of speech that fills this house every day. No one lets me say a word.
She turns toward Elmire.
MADAME PERNELLE
Listen to me. My son did the wisest thing in his life when he welcomed Tartuffe into this house. Heaven sent him to correct you all. You must obey him if you wish to save your souls.
She turns angrily toward the door.
MADAME PERNELLE
These visits, these parties, these balls—they are inventions of the devil. People gather together only to gossip. It is like the Tower of Babylon, where everyone speaks and no one understands.
She sees Cleante smiling slightly.
MADAME PERNELLE
Ah! The gentlemen laugh, do they? Go and laugh somewhere else with fools like yourselves.
She turns again to Elmire.
MADAME PERNELLE
Daughter, goodbye. I have said enough. I will not soon set foot in this house again.
She strikes Flipotte lightly on the arm.
MADAME PERNELLE
Come along, you lazy girl! Why do you stand staring like that? Move!
Madame Pernelle leaves the room with Flipotte.
For a moment the others remain silent. Then Dorine lets out a long breath.
DORINE
Well! That was a storm indeed.
CLEANTE
I am glad I did not walk downstairs with her. She would surely have found another reason to scold me.
DORINE
It is a pity she cannot hear how gently you speak of her now. She would say you are too polite—and that she is not old at all.
CLEANTE
How angry she became with all of us.
DORINE
And all because of Tartuffe. But she is nothing compared with her son.
CLEANTE
You mean Orgon?
DORINE
Yes. Since that man came into the house, our master has changed completely.
CLEANTE
In what way?
DORINE
He loves Tartuffe more than his own family. More than his wife, more than his children. He tells him every secret and asks his advice about everything.
CLEANTE
That is difficult to believe.
DORINE
At table Tartuffe must sit in the place of honor. Our master watches with joy while he eats enough for six men. If Tartuffe even sneezes, our master cries out, “Heaven bless you!”
CLEANTE
Extraordinary devotion.
DORINE
He quotes Tartuffe’s words like sacred law. Every small action becomes a miracle in his eyes. And Tartuffe knows exactly how to take advantage of him.
CLEANTE
So the man is clever.
DORINE
Very clever. With his talk of religion he receives money again and again. He even dares to criticize us all.
CLEANTE
And you must endure it.
DORINE
Endure it? Even his servant lectures us! He throws away our ribbons and says they are sinful decorations. The other day he tore up a handkerchief he found inside a religious book and called it a terrible crime.
CLEANTE
Your house has certainly changed since this Tartuffe arrived.
DORINE
Changed? He rules it.
CLEANTE
Then I understand the anger of Madame Pernelle. She sees the house through Tartuffe’s eyes.
DORINE
Exactly.
At that moment footsteps are heard outside.
DORINE
Hush. I think the master has returned.
Part 2
ORGON
Ah! Brother Cleante, good morning.
CLEANTE
I was just leaving, but I am glad to greet you.
ORGON
Wait a moment, please. Before you go, let me ask some questions. I have been away for two days, and I wish to know how everything has gone in my absence.
He turns to Dorine.
ORGON
Dorine, tell me the news of the house. Has everything been well? How is everyone?
DORINE
Madam Elmire had a fever the day before yesterday. She suffered from a terrible headache all day.
ORGON
And Tartuffe?
DORINE
Tartuffe? He is very well. Strong, fat, and rosy.
ORGON
Poor man!
DORINE
In the evening Madam Elmire felt so sick she could not eat anything.
ORGON
And Tartuffe?
DORINE
He ate very well. Two fine partridges and half a leg of mutton.
ORGON
Poor man!
DORINE
All night Madam could not sleep because of the fever. We had to sit beside her until morning.
ORGON
And Tartuffe?
DORINE
After supper he went quietly to his room, lay down in a warm bed, and slept peacefully until morning.
ORGON
Poor man!
DORINE
At last we persuaded Madam to allow the doctor to bleed her. After that she felt much better.
ORGON
And Tartuffe?
DORINE
He recovered his strength bravely and drank four large glasses of wine at breakfast.
ORGON
Poor man!
DORINE
Now both of them are well. I will go and tell Madam how happy you are to hear of her recovery.
She leaves.
CLEANTE watches Orgon for a moment with a thoughtful expression.
CLEANTE
Brother, she laughs at you openly.
ORGON
What do you mean?
CLEANTE
I mean that your devotion to this man astonishes everyone. Has there ever been such blindness? Can a stranger charm you so much that you forget your own family?
ORGON
Stop there, brother. You do not know the man you speak of.
CLEANTE
Perhaps not. But I see enough to judge his influence.
ORGON
Ah! If you knew him as I do, you would admire him deeply. He is a man—how shall I say it?—a man who brings peace to the soul. Whoever follows his guidance finds perfect calm.
CLEANTE
That is a remarkable claim.
ORGON
His conversation has changed my whole life. He has taught me to detach my heart from the things of this world. Friends, family, wealth—these mean nothing now beside the will of Heaven.
CLEANTE
Nothing at all?
ORGON
Nothing. I could see my brother, my children, my mother, even my wife die—and I would not be troubled.
CLEANTE
Those are very humane feelings indeed.
ORGON
Ah, brother! If you had seen him when I first met him, you would understand.
CLEANTE
Tell me then.
ORGON
Every day he came to church. He knelt opposite me with such humility that all eyes turned toward him. He sighed deeply, prayed with passion, and kissed the floor again and again.
CLEANTE
Very impressive.
ORGON
When the service ended, he hurried to the door before me and offered me holy water. I asked his servant about him and learned that he was very poor.
CLEANTE
And you helped him.
ORGON
Yes. I gave him money. But in his modesty he always tried to return part of it.
CLEANTE
That is convenient modesty.
ORGON
He would say, “It is too much. I am not worthy of such kindness.” When I refused to take it back, he would give it to the poor before my eyes.
CLEANTE
A very careful display of charity.
ORGON
At last Heaven inspired me to bring him into my home. Since that day everything has prospered here.
CLEANTE
Except the peace of the household.
ORGON
He watches over everything for my good. He even takes a special interest in my wife. If any man looks at her with admiration, Tartuffe tells me at once. His jealousy for my honor is greater than my own.
CLEANTE
How touching.
ORGON
You would not believe the depth of his conscience. The smallest fault troubles him.
CLEANTE
For example?
ORGON
The other day he accused himself of sin because, during prayer, he killed a flea in a moment of anger.
CLEANTE stares at him.
CLEANTE
Brother, forgive me, but you must be joking.
ORGON
Not at all.
CLEANTE
Then I fear you are the victim of a dangerous illusion.
ORGON
Your words sound very close to atheism.
CLEANTE
Not at all. I respect true religion deeply.
ORGON
You criticize a man who lives in holiness.
CLEANTE
No. I criticize hypocrisy.
ORGON
Hypocrisy?
CLEANTE
Yes. There are false devotees just as there are false heroes. True virtue is quiet. It does not shout about itself.
ORGON
You speak like a philosopher.
CLEANTE
No. I speak like a reasonable man.
He walks slowly across the room.
CLEANTE
Look around you. There are men of genuine devotion. They do not boast. They do not judge every action of others. They live modestly and quietly. Their religion is gentle and humane.
ORGON
And Tartuffe is not such a man?
CLEANTE
I doubt it very much.
ORGON
You doubt because you do not know him.
CLEANTE
Perhaps. But I know the signs of sincerity. The truly devout man does not advertise his holiness. He does not seek influence or power through religion. He does not condemn everyone around him.
ORGON
You are very certain of your wisdom.
CLEANTE
Not wisdom—experience.
ORGON
You believe yourself the only man who understands the truth.
CLEANTE
Not at all. I only say there is a difference between sincerity and pretence.
ORGON folds his arms impatiently.
ORGON
Have you finished your sermon?
CLEANTE
Yes.
ORGON
Good. Then allow me to end the discussion.
He turns as if to leave.
CLEANTE
Wait a moment. There is another matter.
ORGON stops.
CLEANTE
You once promised your daughter Mariane to Valere.
ORGON
Yes.
CLEANTE
You even fixed the day for the wedding.
ORGON
That is true.
CLEANTE
Then why is the marriage delayed?
ORGON
I cannot say.
CLEANTE
Do you have another plan?
ORGON
Perhaps.
CLEANTE
You intend to break your promise?
ORGON
I did not say that.
CLEANTE
Valere sent me to ask your decision. What answer shall I take him?
ORGON shrugs.
ORGON
Any answer you like.
CLEANTE
But we must know your intention.
ORGON
My intention is to do the will of Heaven.
CLEANTE
Come now. Speak plainly.
ORGON
Goodbye, brother.
He turns and walks away.
CLEANTE watches him go.
CLEANTE
This affair grows dangerous. I must warn Valere at once.
Part 3
ORGON
Mariane, come here. I wish to speak with you.
MARIANE
Yes, father.
ORGON looks around the room carefully.
ORGON
Wait a moment. I want to be sure no one is listening.
He opens a small closet door and looks inside.
ORGON
Good. No one is hiding there.
He closes the door and turns back to his daughter.
ORGON
Mariane, you have always been a gentle and obedient daughter. For that reason I have always loved you very dearly.
MARIANE
I am grateful for your kindness, father.
ORGON
Good. Now prove that you deserve it. A daughter must obey her father in everything.
MARIANE
Nothing would make me happier than to do your will.
ORGON nods with satisfaction.
ORGON
Excellent. Now tell me—what do you think of Tartuffe?
MARIANE
Of Tartuffe?
ORGON
Yes. Be careful how you answer.
MARIANE
I will say whatever you wish me to say.
ORGON
Very good. Then say this: that Tartuffe is a man of great merit, that he has won your heart, and that you would be happy if I chose him as your husband.
MARIANE stares at him.
MARIANE
Father… what did you say?
ORGON
I said that Tartuffe shall be your husband.
MARIANE
I beg your pardon, father. Surely I did not hear you correctly.
ORGON
You heard me perfectly.
MARIANE
You wish me to marry Tartuffe?
ORGON
Yes.
MARIANE
But father, that cannot be true! Why would you ask me to say such a thing?
ORGON
Because I intend it to be the truth. I have decided that Tartuffe will become a member of our family.
MARIANE
You mean… you truly wish me to marry him?
ORGON
Yes. And since it is your duty to obey me—
At that moment Dorine quietly enters the room and stands behind Orgon without being noticed.
ORGON continues.
ORGON
—you must accept my choice.
MARIANE remains silent in shock.
DORINE suddenly speaks.
DORINE
Sir, I must say that this story sounds very strange.
ORGON turns quickly.
ORGON
What are you doing here, Dorine?
DORINE
I heard a rumor about this marriage and came to learn whether it was true. I thought it must be nonsense.
ORGON
Why nonsense?
DORINE
Because such a plan is impossible.
ORGON
I assure you it is very possible.
DORINE
No, sir. You are joking.
ORGON
I am perfectly serious.
DORINE
No one will believe it.
ORGON
I know a way to make people believe.
DORINE
You are telling us a fairy tale.
ORGON
I am telling you exactly what will soon happen.
DORINE
Impossible!
ORGON turns to MARIANE.
ORGON
Daughter, what I say is final.
DORINE laughs.
DORINE
Do not listen to him, Mariane. Your father is only amusing himself.
ORGON
I tell you—
DORINE
No, no. No one will believe you.
ORGON
If you continue speaking like that—
DORINE
Then we must believe you… and the worse for you it will be. Can a grown man with such a large beard truly be foolish enough to do such a thing?
ORGON grows angry.
ORGON
You are becoming far too familiar in this house. I do not like it.
DORINE
Please do not be angry, sir. But are you not making a joke of everyone? Your daughter is not meant to marry a religious hypocrite. And besides, what would you gain from such a match?
ORGON
Silence!
DORINE
How can a rich man like you choose a poor beggar for his son-in-law?
ORGON
You know nothing. The less wealth he has, the more honor he deserves. His poverty is noble poverty. He has given up worldly riches for heaven.
DORINE
So he says.
ORGON
With my help he may recover his fortune. I have heard that he once possessed a fine estate.
DORINE
Indeed? He tells that story himself, I suppose.
ORGON
He is a gentleman.
DORINE
Then why does he boast about his birth? True piety is humble.
ORGON
Enough!
DORINE
Let us leave his family and speak only of the man himself. Can you really give such a husband to your daughter? Think of the scandal!
ORGON
I do not ask your opinion.
DORINE
A woman forced into marriage may become desperate. Even a virtuous girl might rebel if she is given to a man she hates.
ORGON turns to MARIANE.
ORGON
You see? I must learn my duty from a servant!
DORINE
You could do worse than follow my advice.
ORGON
Daughter, we will waste no more time. I know what is best for you. Yes, I once promised you to Valere. But I have learned things about him.
DORINE
What things?
ORGON
They say he likes gambling.
DORINE
Who says so?
ORGON
And I fear his faith is weak.
DORINE
Meaning that he does not go to church exactly when you do?
ORGON
I did not ask for your comment!
DORINE
People who go to church only to be seen are not always the most devout.
ORGON
Enough! Tartuffe, on the other hand, is favored by Heaven. That is wealth beyond all others.
DORINE
Of course.
ORGON
With him you will live in perfect peace.
DORINE
Yes—perfect peace indeed.
ORGON
You will live like two faithful lovers, like two turtle doves.
DORINE
Two turtle doves?
ORGON
You will never quarrel.
DORINE
Never?
ORGON
You may do whatever you wish with him.
DORINE
Oh yes. She will give him horns, no doubt.
ORGON
Silence!
DORINE
I tell you plainly—he is made for such a fate.
ORGON
Stop interrupting!
DORINE
I only wish to help you.
ORGON
I do not need your help!
DORINE
But your honor concerns me.
ORGON
Be quiet!
DORINE
It would be a sin to allow this marriage.
ORGON
Silence, you insolent girl!
DORINE
What! A holy man like you losing your temper?
ORGON
Your nonsense drives me mad! I forbid you to speak another word.
DORINE crosses her arms.
DORINE
Very well. I shall remain silent and think instead.
ORGON turns again to MARIANE.
ORGON
Daughter, I have considered everything carefully. Tartuffe may not be handsome, but—
DORINE whispers to herself.
DORINE
What a charming face!
ORGON turns sharply.
ORGON
Did you speak?
DORINE
No. I was talking to myself.
ORGON glares at her.
ORGON
Very well. Continue talking to yourself—but not to me.
He turns back to MARIANE.
ORGON
You must obey me. I command you to accept Tartuffe as your husband.
DORINE suddenly runs toward the door.
DORINE
You will never make her marry such a creature!
ORGON raises his hand as if to strike her, but she escapes.
ORGON
That insolent girl will drive me to sin! I cannot discuss anything while she is here.
He walks toward the door angrily.
ORGON
My mind is too disturbed. I must go out and calm myself with a walk.
He leaves the room.
For a moment MARIANE stands motionless.
DORINE returns and looks at her in astonishment.
DORINE
What is the matter with you? Have you lost your tongue? They propose the most absurd marriage in the world, and you say nothing!
Part 4
MARIANE
What could I say? My father is the master of the house.
DORINE
And must that stop you from defending yourself?
MARIANE
But what can I do?
DORINE
Everything! Tell him plainly that love cannot be ordered like a servant. Tell him you will marry for yourself, not for him. If he admires Tartuffe so much, let him marry him himself.
MARIANE
Dorine, you speak too boldly. A daughter must respect her father’s authority. I could never oppose him openly.
DORINE
Respect is one thing. Ruining your life is another.
MARIANE lowers her eyes.
DORINE
Let us speak plainly. Valere has asked for your hand. Do you love him or not?
MARIANE
Dorine! How can you ask such a question? Have I not told you a hundred times what I feel?
DORINE
Words are easy. I want to know if your heart truly belongs to him.
MARIANE
Yes. I love him with all my heart.
DORINE
And he loves you?
MARIANE
I believe so.
DORINE
And both of you wish to marry?
MARIANE
Of course.
DORINE
Then what do you intend to do about this other marriage?
MARIANE
If my father forces it… I shall die.
DORINE throws up her hands.
DORINE
Die! What a brilliant solution! Yes, that will fix everything nicely. Just die and the problem disappears.
MARIANE
You mock me when I am suffering.
DORINE
Because you talk nonsense. Instead of fighting, you collapse like a weak soldier at the first blow.
MARIANE
But what would you have me do?
DORINE
Show courage!
MARIANE
My father’s authority is very strong.
DORINE
And your love is very weak, it seems.
MARIANE
Do you doubt my love for Valere?
DORINE
Love without courage is useless.
MARIANE
Is it not his duty to defend me? Should he not speak to my father?
DORINE
If your father has lost his senses and worships Tartuffe like a saint, what can your lover do?
MARIANE
Must I declare openly that I love Valere? Must I throw aside all modesty?
DORINE
I ask nothing. You may marry Tartuffe if you like.
MARIANE looks up in alarm.
DORINE continues calmly.
DORINE
Yes, marry him. It is an excellent match.
MARIANE
Dorine!
DORINE
What could be better? Monsieur Tartuffe! A most distinguished husband!
MARIANE
Please stop.
DORINE
He is noble—at least in his village. Handsome too. Look at those red ears and that rosy face.
MARIANE covers her face.
MARIANE
You are cruel.
DORINE
You will be extremely happy, I am sure.
MARIANE
Dorine, I beg you. Help me find a way to prevent this marriage. I will do anything you say.
DORINE pauses.
DORINE
No. You must obey your father.
MARIANE
Dorine!
DORINE
Yes. If he orders you to marry a monkey, you must obey.
MARIANE
You know I trust you. Do not abandon me now.
DORINE pretends to think.
DORINE
Very well. Since you insist… I suppose I must help you.
MARIANE takes her hand eagerly.
MARIANE
Thank you!
DORINE
But do not be afraid. We will find a way.
MARIANE
What shall we do?
DORINE
First, delay. Delay is the best weapon. If you gain time, many things may happen.
MARIANE
But how?
DORINE
You can pretend illness. You can say that bad omens have appeared. Perhaps you dreamed something terrible. Perhaps a mirror broke. There are a hundred excuses.
MARIANE
Yes…
DORINE
Besides, no one can marry you without your consent. You must say the word “yes.”
MARIANE
That is true.
DORINE
And you must not say it.
At that moment a young man enters.
DORINE
Ah! Here is Valere himself.
VALERE approaches with a serious expression.
VALERE
Madam, I have just heard an interesting piece of news.
MARIANE
What news?
VALERE
That you are to marry Tartuffe.
MARIANE looks down.
MARIANE
My father has indeed spoken of such a plan.
VALERE
Your father said so?
MARIANE
Yes. He told me only a moment ago.
VALERE
Seriously?
MARIANE
Quite seriously.
VALERE
And what is your decision?
MARIANE
I do not know.
VALERE looks at her in surprise.
VALERE
You do not know?
MARIANE
No.
VALERE
Then allow me to advise you.
MARIANE
Please do.
VALERE
Marry him.
MARIANE looks at him sharply.
MARIANE
That is your advice?
VALERE
Yes.
MARIANE
You truly mean it?
VALERE
Of course. It is a splendid match.
MARIANE
Very well, sir. I shall follow your advice.
VALERE
You will find it easy to follow.
MARIANE
As easy as it was for you to give.
VALERE
I only gave it to please you.
MARIANE
And I shall follow it to please you.
DORINE moves quietly to the back of the room and watches them.
DORINE
Let us see where this quarrel goes.
VALERE
So this is your love?
MARIANE
Please say no more.
VALERE
You asked my advice, and I gave it.
MARIANE
Yes, you told me to marry Tartuffe. And I will do exactly that.
VALERE
Do not hide behind my words. You had already decided to betray me.
MARIANE
Exactly so.
VALERE
Then your love was false from the beginning.
MARIANE
You are free to think so.
VALERE
My wounded pride will not remain silent. I shall offer my hand elsewhere.
MARIANE
You will certainly find someone worthy of you.
VALERE
I know a woman who will gladly accept what you reject.
MARIANE
Then you will easily forget me.
VALERE
I shall try. A man must preserve his dignity.
MARIANE
A noble sentiment indeed.
VALERE
Would you have me continue loving you while you marry another?
MARIANE
Certainly not.
VALERE
Then I shall do exactly as you wish.
He turns toward the door.
MARIANE
Very well.
VALERE stops and turns back.
VALERE
Remember—it was you who forced me to this decision.
MARIANE
Of course.
VALERE
I merely follow your example.
MARIANE
Yes.
VALERE moves toward the door again.
VALERE
Goodbye, madam.
MARIANE
Goodbye, sir.
DORINE rushes forward.
DORINE
Stop! Have you both lost your senses?
She grabs VALERE by the arm.
DORINE
Where are you going?
VALERE
Leave me alone.
DORINE
Not a chance.
MARIANE turns away sadly.
DORINE runs after her and pulls her back as well.
DORINE
And where are you going?
MARIANE
Let me go.
DORINE drags both of them to the center of the room.
DORINE
Now listen to me, both of you. You behave like two children.
VALERE
Did you not hear what she said?
DORINE
And did you not hear what you said?
She points first to VALERE, then to MARIANE.
DORINE
She loves no one but you.
Then she points to MARIANE.
DORINE
And he loves no one but you.
MARIANE looks at VALERE.
MARIANE
Then why did you advise me to marry Tartuffe?
VALERE
Why did you ask my advice?
DORINE
Enough! Give me your hands.
VALERE hesitates.
VALERE
Why?
DORINE
Because I say so.
He gives her his hand.
DORINE
Now you.
MARIANE slowly gives her hand.
DORINE joins their hands together.
DORINE
There. You love each other more than you admit.
For a moment the two lovers stand silently holding hands.
VALERE finally looks at MARIANE.
VALERE
Come now… do not look at me as if you hated me.
MARIANE glances at him shyly and smiles slightly.
DORINE shakes her head.
DORINE
Ah, lovers! What foolish creatures they are.
Part 5
VALERE
But tell me honestly, Mariane. Have I not reason to complain? Was it not cruel of you to say things that wounded me so deeply?
MARIANE
And you? Were you not ungrateful to speak as if my love meant nothing?
DORINE
Enough! This is not the moment for lovers’ quarrels. You must think of something far more important.
VALERE
What do you mean?
DORINE
The marriage with Tartuffe.
MARIANE
Yes. We must find a way to stop it.
DORINE
Exactly. Your father is blinded by madness, and this plan is pure nonsense.
She turns to Mariane.
DORINE
For the moment, you must pretend to obey him.
MARIANE
Pretend?
DORINE
Yes. Act as if you agree with his wishes. If you resist too strongly, he will only become more stubborn.
VALERE
That is true.
DORINE
If you appear obedient, you can gain time. And time is our greatest ally.
MARIANE
But how can we delay the wedding?
DORINE
There are many ways. One day you may claim illness. Another day you may speak of bad dreams or unlucky signs.
VALERE
Yes…
DORINE
You might say you met a funeral in the street, or that a mirror broke in your room. People take such things seriously.
MARIANE
That might work.
DORINE
Most important of all, no one can marry you without your consent. Remember that.
VALERE
That is comforting.
DORINE
While you delay, we shall work behind the scenes.
She points to VALERE.
DORINE
You must speak with your friends. They should remind Orgon of his promise to you.
VALERE
I will do it immediately.
DORINE
Good. And we will persuade Cleante to speak again with Orgon.
MARIANE
My uncle may succeed where others fail.
DORINE
And Elmire as well. Your stepmother has influence over your father.
VALERE
Perhaps she can open his eyes.
DORINE
Exactly. We will surround him with reason until his madness disappears.
MARIANE looks at VALERE with renewed hope.
MARIANE
Then there is still a chance.
VALERE
Yes. But remember, my greatest hope lies in you.
MARIANE
Whatever happens, no one but you shall ever be my husband.
VALERE takes her hand again.
VALERE
Your words fill me with joy.
DORINE claps her hands sharply.
DORINE
Enough! Lovers can talk forever. Time is precious.
She pushes VALERE toward the door.
DORINE
Go now.
VALERE
Just one more word—
DORINE
No more words!
She pushes him again.
DORINE
Out! Quickly!
VALERE finally leaves.
DORINE turns to MARIANE and pushes her gently toward the opposite door.
DORINE
And you, madam, must go this way.
MARIANE
Very well.
She pauses a moment.
MARIANE
Dorine… thank you.
DORINE
Go, go. Leave the thinking to me.
MARIANE exits.
DORINE stands alone for a moment, thinking.
DORINE
This house is full of trouble. But perhaps we can still save it.
She exits.
Soon after, Damis enters quickly, his face full of anger.
DAMIS
If I do not stop this villain immediately, I deserve to be called a coward!
DORINE returns and sees him.
DORINE
What now? Why are you so furious?
DAMIS
I swear I will expose Tartuffe before everyone!
DORINE
Calm yourself.
DAMIS
Calm myself? Never!
DORINE
Listen to me. Your father has only spoken of this marriage. Nothing is certain yet.
DAMIS
That is enough for me. I will confront that hypocrite today.
DORINE
And ruin everything with your temper.
DAMIS
I cannot remain silent.
DORINE
You must. Your stepmother has already planned something.
DAMIS
What plan?
DORINE
Elmire intends to speak privately with Tartuffe. She wishes to discover his true intentions.
DAMIS
And you trust that man to reveal them?
DORINE
I suspect something interesting may happen.
DAMIS
What do you mean?
DORINE
I believe Tartuffe has feelings that are not entirely holy.
DAMIS
What feelings?
DORINE lowers her voice.
DORINE
Feelings for Elmire.
DAMIS
What!
DORINE
Yes. If that is true, his hypocrisy will soon be revealed.
DAMIS
Then I must hear what he says.
DORINE
No. Leave it to Elmire.
DAMIS
Impossible. I will hide and listen.
DORINE
That is a terrible idea.
DAMIS
I promise to remain silent.
DORINE
Your temper will betray you.
DAMIS
No. This time I swear I will control myself.
DORINE sighs.
DORINE
Very well. But if you ruin everything, do not blame me.
DAMIS
Where shall I hide?
DORINE points to a small closet at the back of the room.
DORINE
There. Behind that door.
DAMIS
Perfect.
He quickly enters the closet and leaves the door slightly open.
DORINE stands waiting.
DORINE
Now we must wait for Tartuffe.
After a moment footsteps are heard.
DORINE
He is coming.
TARTUFFE enters the room.
He speaks toward the door behind him, addressing his servant.
TARTUFFE
Laurent, put away my hair shirt and my whip of penance. Pray that Heaven will grant you its grace.
He adjusts his clothes with exaggerated humility.
TARTUFFE
If anyone comes to see me, tell them I have gone to distribute charity among the poor prisoners.
DORINE watches him with a smile.
DORINE
What wonderful piety.
TARTUFFE finally notices her.
TARTUFFE
What do you want?
DORINE
Madam Elmire wishes to speak with you.
TARTUFFE suddenly pulls a handkerchief from his pocket.
TARTUFFE
Before you say another word, please take this handkerchief.
DORINE
Why?
TARTUFFE
Cover that bosom. Such sights disturb the soul and lead the mind toward sinful thoughts.
DORINE laughs.
DORINE
Is temptation so powerful for you?
TARTUFFE
Modesty, please.
DORINE
Strange. I am not so easily tempted. I could see you from head to foot and feel nothing at all.
TARTUFFE
Your speech lacks modesty.
DORINE
Very well. I will say no more. Madam Elmire will be here in a moment.
TARTUFFE immediately changes his tone.
TARTUFFE
Ah! I shall be delighted to see her.
DORINE smiles to herself.
DORINE
So gentle all at once.
ELMIRE enters the room.
DORINE quietly exits.
Part 6
ELMIRE
Heaven grant you good health and peace, Monsieur Tartuffe.
TARTUFFE
Madam, may Heaven pour its blessings upon you and preserve both your body and your soul.
ELMIRE
You are very kind. But please, let us sit down and speak comfortably.
They sit.
TARTUFFE
I hope your illness has completely disappeared.
ELMIRE
Yes, the fever has passed.
TARTUFFE
My prayers were constantly directed toward your recovery.
ELMIRE
You care too much for my health.
TARTUFFE
One cannot care too much for something so precious. I would gladly have sacrificed my own health to restore yours.
ELMIRE smiles politely.
ELMIRE
That is taking charity very far.
TARTUFFE
You deserve far more than I can offer.
ELMIRE pauses for a moment.
ELMIRE
There is a matter I wished to discuss with you privately. I am glad that no one else is here to listen.
Behind the closet door DAMIS slowly opens it a little and listens.
TARTUFFE
Madam, I am delighted to find myself alone with you. It is an opportunity for which I have long prayed.
ELMIRE
All I ask is that you speak openly and honestly with me.
TARTUFFE
That is exactly my wish.
ELMIRE
People say my husband intends to break his promise and give my daughter Mariane to you in marriage. Is that true?
TARTUFFE
He has mentioned such an idea.
ELMIRE
And what do you think of it?
TARTUFFE lowers his eyes in a display of humility.
TARTUFFE
Madam, that is not the happiness for which my heart longs.
ELMIRE
No?
TARTUFFE
There are charms elsewhere that attract my heart far more strongly.
ELMIRE raises her eyebrows slightly.
ELMIRE
I believed you had no interest in earthly beauty.
TARTUFFE
The heart is not made of stone.
ELMIRE
I thought your love was directed only toward Heaven.
TARTUFFE leans slightly closer.
TARTUFFE
Love for eternal beauty does not destroy our admiration for beauty on earth.
ELMIRE
Indeed?
TARTUFFE
Heaven shows its glory through its creations. And in you, madam, Heaven has placed its most perfect work.
ELMIRE remains calm.
TARTUFFE continues, growing more passionate.
TARTUFFE
When I first saw you, I trembled. I feared that my feelings were sinful. I tried to avoid you and to drive the thought from my heart.
ELMIRE
But you did not succeed?
TARTUFFE
No. At last I understood that such love could be pure and innocent. Heaven itself must have inspired it.
ELMIRE
That is a convenient explanation.
TARTUFFE
Madam, it is true. Your beauty has conquered my soul.
He gently takes her hand.
TARTUFFE
You are my hope and my happiness. My peace or my despair depends entirely upon you.
ELMIRE pulls her hand away slightly.
ELMIRE
Your declaration is very gallant. But it surprises me.
TARTUFFE
Why so?
ELMIRE
A man known everywhere for his piety should be more careful with his heart.
TARTUFFE
Madam, I am still a man. And when a man sees such beauty, he cannot remain indifferent.
ELMIRE
Perhaps not.
TARTUFFE
If my confession offends you, blame only your own charms.
ELMIRE
You are very bold.
TARTUFFE
My love hopes only for your kindness. If you show me mercy, I will devote myself to you completely.
ELMIRE watches him closely.
TARTUFFE
And you need not fear scandal. I am discreet.
ELMIRE
Are you?
TARTUFFE
Those fashionable men who boast of their adventures would shout their victories to the whole world. But men like me guard their secrets carefully.
ELMIRE
How reassuring.
TARTUFFE
Your honor will be perfectly safe with me.
ELMIRE suddenly speaks with a slightly more serious tone.
ELMIRE
Tell me, Monsieur Tartuffe… do you not fear that I might repeat this conversation to my husband?
TARTUFFE smiles calmly.
TARTUFFE
Madam, you are too generous to betray me.
ELMIRE
And if I did?
TARTUFFE
Then I would rely upon your kindness. You would forgive a moment of human weakness.
ELMIRE stands and walks slowly across the room.
ELMIRE
Some women might tell their husbands immediately.
TARTUFFE rises as well.
TARTUFFE
But you are wiser than most women.
ELMIRE turns toward him.
ELMIRE
Perhaps.
She pauses thoughtfully.
ELMIRE
Very well. I will not speak of this conversation.
TARTUFFE bows deeply.
TARTUFFE
Your generosity overwhelms me.
ELMIRE
But in return I ask something of you.
TARTUFFE
Anything within my power.
ELMIRE
You must persuade my husband to allow the marriage of Mariane and Valere.
TARTUFFE stiffens slightly.
ELMIRE
You have great influence over him. If you truly care for my peace of mind, you will help them.
TARTUFFE hesitates.
TARTUFFE
Madam… that matter requires careful thought.
ELMIRE
There is nothing difficult about it. Simply speak to him honestly.
TARTUFFE slowly moves closer again.
TARTUFFE
Everything depends upon your kindness toward me.
ELMIRE
What do you mean?
TARTUFFE
If you favor me… I will gladly serve your wishes.
ELMIRE understands his meaning but remains composed.
ELMIRE
You ask a great deal.
TARTUFFE
Love demands courage.
ELMIRE pretends to consider his words.
ELMIRE
Very well. But such matters must remain secret.
TARTUFFE
Completely secret.
ELMIRE
And my husband must never know.
TARTUFFE
Never.
Behind the closet door DAMIS listens with growing anger.
ELMIRE speaks again.
ELMIRE
Then let us continue this conversation another time.
TARTUFFE bows deeply again.
TARTUFFE
I live only for your happiness.
ELMIRE nods politely.
TARTUFFE exits.
The moment he leaves, DAMIS bursts out of the closet.
DAMIS
Ah! The villain! Now I have heard everything!
Part 7
DAMIS
The scoundrel! Now his hypocrisy is exposed. I heard every word he said.
ELMIRE
What are you doing here?
DAMIS
I was hiding in the closet. I wanted to hear what he would say to you.
ELMIRE
That was very unwise.
DAMIS
Unwise? No! It was necessary. Now we have proof of his wickedness.
ELMIRE
Be careful. If you accuse him too quickly, your father may not believe you.
DAMIS
He will believe me this time. I will repeat every word that man spoke.
ELMIRE
Your father is blinded by admiration for Tartuffe. Anger will only make things worse.
DAMIS
I cannot remain silent.
ELMIRE
Listen to me. Leave this matter to me. I will find a better way to reveal the truth.
DAMIS
No! I will go to my father at once.
ELMIRE tries to stop him.
ELMIRE
DamIS, wait—
But he has already rushed toward the door.
ELMIRE
This will end badly.
Moments later ORGON enters the room with TARTUFFE.
ORGON
Brother Tartuffe, come with me. I wish my son to hear your advice.
DAMIS immediately steps forward.
DAMIS
Father, I have something important to tell you.
ORGON
What is it?
DAMIS points angrily at TARTUFFE.
DAMIS
That man is a hypocrite!
ORGON is shocked.
ORGON
What did you say?
DAMIS
He pretends to be holy, but he is a villain.
ORGON
Take care of your words!
DAMIS
I heard everything with my own ears. He declared his love to Elmire and tried to persuade her to betray you.
ORGON turns toward TARTUFFE.
ORGON
What is this accusation?
TARTUFFE lowers his head humbly.
TARTUFFE
Alas… Heaven knows how weak the human heart can be.
ORGON
Explain yourself.
TARTUFFE
Yes, I am a sinner. I am guilty of many faults. If your son accuses me, I deserve it.
DAMIS
You see! He admits it!
TARTUFFE
But I ask only for forgiveness.
ORGON suddenly becomes angry.
ORGON
DAMIS! How dare you insult such a virtuous man!
DAMIS
What?
ORGON
You accuse him falsely!
DAMIS
Father, I heard him confess his love to Elmire!
ELMIRE steps forward.
ELMIRE
My husband—
ORGON interrupts her.
ORGON
Silence! I know the truth already.
DAMIS
Then you refuse to believe me?
ORGON
Yes! I know your temper. You hate this man and invent lies against him.
DAMIS
Lies?
ORGON
You are jealous of his goodness.
DAMIS
Father, listen—
ORGON
Enough!
He turns toward TARTUFFE.
ORGON
My friend, forgive the madness of my son.
TARTUFFE sighs deeply.
TARTUFFE
I ask only to suffer patiently.
ORGON
Your humility proves your virtue.
DAMIS stares in disbelief.
DAMIS
You defend him?
ORGON
Yes. And I punish you.
DAMIS
Punish me?
ORGON
From this moment you are no longer my son. Leave my house!
ELMIRE gasps.
ELMIRE
ORGON!
DAMIS
Very well. I will leave. But remember that I spoke the truth.
He exits angrily.
ORGON turns again to TARTUFFE.
ORGON
My friend, I beg you to remain in this house. You will guide us all.
TARTUFFE bows modestly.
TARTUFFE
I am unworthy of such kindness.
ORGON
You are the most honest man I know.
He takes TARTUFFE’s hand.
ORGON
To prove my trust, I will make you master of everything I possess.
ELMIRE looks at him in astonishment.
ELMIRE
What are you saying?
ORGON
Yes. I will place my entire fortune under his protection.
ELMIRE
Think carefully before making such a decision.
ORGON
I have already decided.
TARTUFFE pretends to resist.
TARTUFFE
I cannot accept such generosity.
ORGON
You must.
TARTUFFE
I am nothing but a poor sinner.
ORGON
You are a saint.
ELMIRE realizes the danger.
ELMIRE
My husband, please listen to reason—
ORGON
No more arguments! My decision is final.
ELMIRE watches TARTUFFE quietly.
ELMIRE
Very well.
She pauses.
ELMIRE
But allow me to speak with you alone later. There are things you should hear with your own ears.
ORGON looks puzzled.
ORGON
What do you mean?
ELMIRE
Only that truth sometimes appears when we observe carefully.
ORGON
Very mysterious.
ELMIRE
Trust me. Soon you will understand everything.
ORGON nods slowly.
ORGON
Very well. We shall speak later.
ELMIRE watches TARTUFFE with calm determination.
ELMIRE
Yes… later.
TARTUFFE lowers his eyes, but a faint smile crosses his face.
Part 8
ELMIRE remained calm after DAMIS left, but inside her mind she was already forming a plan.
ORGON, however, still looked satisfied with himself.
ORGON
My dear Tartuffe, do not trouble yourself about my son’s behavior. Young people are often foolish. His anger proves nothing.
TARTUFFE bowed his head.
TARTUFFE
I would gladly suffer any insult if it helps the salvation of this household.
ORGON
Your patience only increases my admiration.
ELMIRE watched the two men carefully.
ELMIRE
My husband, may I speak with you privately later this evening?
ORGON
Of course. But why not speak now?
ELMIRE
Because I wish to show you something rather than simply explain it.
ORGON looked puzzled.
ORGON
Show me something?
ELMIRE
Yes. But for that, you must promise to remain calm and patient.
ORGON
You speak as if some great secret is about to be revealed.
ELMIRE
Perhaps it is.
ORGON turned toward TARTUFFE.
ORGON
You see how mysterious she is.
TARTUFFE smiled modestly.
TARTUFFE
Madam Elmire is known for her wisdom.
ELMIRE nodded politely.
ELMIRE
Then we shall settle the matter tonight.
She turned toward the door.
ELMIRE
For now, let us leave it at that.
She exited quietly.
ORGON remained with TARTUFFE.
ORGON
My friend, you see how unreasonable my family has become. They all seem determined to misunderstand you.
TARTUFFE
I bear them no resentment.
ORGON
Your humility is admirable.
TARTUFFE
I only wish to serve Heaven.
ORGON
And you serve it well.
TARTUFFE sighed gently.
TARTUFFE
Still, I fear that my presence here creates conflict.
ORGON
Never say that! This is your home now.
TARTUFFE
Your kindness overwhelms me.
ORGON placed his hand warmly on TARTUFFE’s shoulder.
ORGON
From this day forward I trust you more than anyone in this house.
TARTUFFE bowed again.
TARTUFFE
I will prove myself worthy of that trust.
ORGON
You already have.
At that moment DORINE entered the room.
DORINE
Sir, supper will soon be ready.
ORGON
Very good.
DORINE glanced at TARTUFFE with a faint smile.
DORINE
Monsieur Tartuffe must be hungry after such a long day of devotion.
TARTUFFE
One must accept whatever Heaven sends.
DORINE
Indeed.
ORGON did not notice her tone.
ORGON
Come, my friend. Let us eat.
They left together.
DORINE remained alone for a moment.
DORINE
What blindness! That man could steal the house and ORGON would thank him for it.
CLEANTE entered quietly.
CLEANTE
You speak of Tartuffe, I suppose.
DORINE
Of course. The whole house speaks of nothing else.
CLEANTE
What has happened since I left?
DORINE explained quickly.
DORINE
DAMIS accused Tartuffe directly. But ORGON defended him and drove his own son out of the house.
CLEANTE sighed.
CLEANTE
That is exactly what I feared.
DORINE
And worse still—ORGON now plans to give Tartuffe control over his fortune.
CLEANTE stopped walking.
CLEANTE
His fortune?
DORINE
Yes. Everything.
CLEANTE shook his head.
CLEANTE
Blind devotion is a dangerous thing.
DORINE
ELMIRE has another plan.
CLEANTE
What plan?
DORINE
She intends to let ORGON hear Tartuffe with his own ears.
CLEANTE looked interested.
CLEANTE
That may succeed where reason has failed.
DORINE
Tonight she will arrange a meeting with Tartuffe again.
CLEANTE
And ORGON will listen?
DORINE
Yes. Hidden somewhere in the room.
CLEANTE smiled slightly.
CLEANTE
Then perhaps truth will finally defeat hypocrisy.
DORINE
Let us hope so.
Just then MARIANE entered.
MARIANE
Dorine, I have been looking everywhere for you.
DORINE
What is the matter?
MARIANE
My father still insists that I must marry Tartuffe.
CLEANTE approached her kindly.
CLEANTE
Do not lose hope. Your stepmother has begun to act.
MARIANE
What do you mean?
DORINE
Tonight we may learn the truth about Tartuffe.
MARIANE looked surprised.
MARIANE
How?
DORINE
ELMIRE will speak with him again.
CLEANTE
And if Tartuffe repeats the same behavior, ORGON himself will hear it.
MARIANE’s eyes brightened.
MARIANE
Then my father will finally understand.
DORINE
Exactly.
CLEANTE
But we must be careful. One mistake could ruin everything.
DORINE nodded.
DORINE
Yes. Tonight will decide the fate of this house.
MARIANE clasped her hands nervously.
MARIANE
I pray that truth will prevail.
DORINE smiled.
DORINE
Do not worry too much. Hypocrites often reveal themselves when they believe no one is watching.
CLEANTE looked toward the door where ORGON had left earlier.
CLEANTE
Let us prepare carefully.
DORINE
Yes.
She turned toward MARIANE.
DORINE
And you must remain patient.
MARIANE
I will try.
DORINE
Everything depends on tonight.
The three of them slowly left the room, each thinking about what might soon happen.
Part 9
Later that evening ELMIRE prepared the room carefully.
A small table stood near the center. A few chairs were placed around it. Near the wall stood a large table covered with a cloth.
ELMIRE looked around thoughtfully.
ELMIRE
Yes… this will do.
At that moment ORGON entered.
ORGON
You asked to speak with me.
ELMIRE
Yes. And I hope you will keep your promise.
ORGON
Which promise?
ELMIRE
To remain calm and patient, no matter what happens.
ORGON
You speak as if something strange will occur.
ELMIRE
It may seem strange at first.
ORGON folded his arms.
ORGON
Very well. What must I do?
ELMIRE pointed toward the large table.
ELMIRE
Hide under that table.
ORGON stared at her.
ORGON
Under the table?
ELMIRE
Yes.
ORGON
Why?
ELMIRE
Because I want you to hear something without being seen.
ORGON hesitated.
ORGON
You expect me to hide like a spy?
ELMIRE
If you trust me, you will do it.
ORGON looked uncertain, but finally nodded.
ORGON
Very well.
He slowly crawled under the table.
ELMIRE bent down slightly.
ELMIRE
Remember: no matter what you hear, remain silent until I give you a signal.
ORGON
Very well.
ELMIRE stepped back.
ELMIRE
Now stay perfectly quiet.
She went to the door and called.
ELMIRE
Dorine!
DORINE entered.
DORINE
Yes, madam?
ELMIRE
Please ask Monsieur Tartuffe to come here.
DORINE glanced toward the table, understanding the situation.
DORINE
Very well.
She left.
ELMIRE sat calmly in a chair.
Moments later TARTUFFE entered.
TARTUFFE
Madam, you wished to see me?
ELMIRE
Yes. Please sit down.
TARTUFFE sat beside her.
TARTUFFE
I hope my presence does not disturb you.
ELMIRE
Not at all.
She lowered her voice slightly.
ELMIRE
In fact, I wished to continue our conversation from earlier today.
TARTUFFE leaned closer with interest.
TARTUFFE
That conversation has not left my thoughts for a moment.
ELMIRE
Nor mine.
Under the table ORGON listened carefully.
TARTUFFE
Your kindness has filled me with hope.
ELMIRE
You spoke very boldly this afternoon.
TARTUFFE
Love makes one bold.
ELMIRE
But we must be careful.
TARTUFFE
Of course.
ELMIRE
If my husband discovered our secret…
TARTUFFE smiled confidently.
TARTUFFE
Your husband trusts me completely.
Under the table ORGON shifted slightly.
ELMIRE coughed gently to cover the sound.
ELMIRE
Yes… he trusts you very much.
TARTUFFE
Perhaps too much.
ELMIRE
You say that with great confidence.
TARTUFFE
Because I know how deeply he respects me.
ELMIRE leaned closer.
ELMIRE
Then you are certain he will suspect nothing?
TARTUFFE
Nothing at all.
ELMIRE
Even if you were to speak openly of your feelings?
TARTUFFE
Yes.
ELMIRE
Then tell me again… what exactly are those feelings?
TARTUFFE took her hand eagerly.
TARTUFFE
Madam, I adore you.
Under the table ORGON clenched his fists.
ELMIRE continued calmly.
ELMIRE
Adore me?
TARTUFFE
Yes. I have struggled against this passion, but it grows stronger every day.
ELMIRE
And you believe Heaven approves of such feelings?
TARTUFFE
Heaven understands the weakness of the human heart.
ELMIRE
How comforting.
TARTUFFE moved even closer.
TARTUFFE
If you would only return my love, my happiness would be complete.
ELMIRE
You are asking me to betray my husband.
TARTUFFE
Not betray—only to share a secret happiness.
ELMIRE glanced briefly toward the table.
ORGON remained silent.
ELMIRE
And you promise absolute secrecy?
TARTUFFE
I swear it.
ELMIRE
No one must ever know.
TARTUFFE
No one.
ELMIRE
Not even my husband?
TARTUFFE laughed quietly.
TARTUFFE
Especially not your husband.
Under the table ORGON began breathing heavily.
ELMIRE quickly spoke again.
ELMIRE
But if he discovered us?
TARTUFFE shrugged calmly.
TARTUFFE
Then I would deny everything. My reputation would protect me.
ELMIRE
Your reputation?
TARTUFFE
Yes. People believe me to be a holy man.
ELMIRE
And they would not believe a word against you?
TARTUFFE
Certainly not.
ELMIRE slowly withdrew her hand.
ELMIRE
You are very confident.
TARTUFFE
Because I know the world.
ELMIRE glanced again toward the table.
ORGON was now shaking with anger.
ELMIRE coughed loudly.
ELMIRE
Forgive me… I feel a slight cough.
TARTUFFE
Are you ill again?
ELMIRE coughed once more.
Under the table ORGON shifted impatiently.
ELMIRE whispered urgently toward the table.
ELMIRE
Please… wait a little longer.
But ORGON could no longer remain silent.
With a sudden movement he burst out from under the table.
ORGON
Traitor!
TARTUFFE jumped back in shock.
TARTUFFE
Monsieur!
ORGON pointed at him furiously.
ORGON
So this is your holiness! This is your virtue!
Part 10
ORGON
Villain! Hypocrite! Now I know you at last!
TARTUFFE stepped back, pretending confusion.
TARTUFFE
Monsieur… what does this mean?
ORGON
Do not pretend innocence! I heard everything.
ELMIRE rose calmly from her chair.
ELMIRE
I warned you to remain patient.
ORGON
Patient? I have been patient long enough!
He turned toward TARTUFFE.
ORGON
You dare to betray me in my own house!
TARTUFFE lowered his head humbly.
TARTUFFE
Heaven knows that I am a miserable sinner.
ORGON
Do not speak to me of Heaven!
TARTUFFE
If my weakness has offended you, I beg forgiveness.
ORGON
Forgiveness?
ORGON pointed toward the door.
ORGON
Leave this house at once!
TARTUFFE
I will obey whatever you command.
ORGON
Go!
TARTUFFE slowly moved toward the door.
TARTUFFE
I leave with sorrow in my heart.
ORGON
Enough! Go before I lose control of my anger.
TARTUFFE bowed deeply.
TARTUFFE
May Heaven forgive you for the harsh judgment you make today.
He exited calmly.
ORGON remained standing in the middle of the room, breathing heavily.
ELMIRE approached him gently.
ELMIRE
Now you see the truth.
ORGON covered his face with his hands.
ORGON
What blindness! What madness!
ELMIRE
You trusted him too much.
ORGON
Too much? I trusted him more than my own family!
ELMIRE
At least now you understand.
ORGON looked around the room as if waking from a dream.
ORGON
Yes… I understand now.
He sighed deeply.
ORGON
I accused my son unjustly. I drove him out of my house.
ELMIRE
You can still repair that mistake.
ORGON
And I insulted everyone who tried to warn me.
ELMIRE
What matters is that the truth has appeared.
ORGON nodded slowly.
ORGON
Yes. And now that hypocrite will never enter this house again.
At that moment DORINE rushed into the room.
DORINE
What happened? I heard shouting.
ORGON turned toward her.
ORGON
Everything has been revealed. Tartuffe is a fraud.
DORINE smiled triumphantly.
DORINE
At last!
ELMIRE
ORGON heard the entire conversation.
DORINE laughed.
DORINE
So the saint has lost his halo.
ORGON shook his head angrily.
ORGON
I will never forgive myself for being so foolish.
DORINE
Do not blame yourself too harshly. Hypocrites are clever.
ORGON
But I was blind.
DORINE
Many people are blinded by false piety.
ORGON suddenly remembered something.
ORGON
Wait…
ELMIRE looked at him.
ELMIRE
What is it?
ORGON
There is something far worse than my foolish trust.
DORINE
What could be worse?
ORGON’s face grew pale.
ORGON
Earlier today… before all this happened… I signed a document.
ELMIRE
What document?
ORGON hesitated.
ORGON
I transferred my entire fortune to Tartuffe.
DORINE stared at him in horror.
DORINE
Your entire fortune?
ORGON
Yes.
ELMIRE looked shocked.
ELMIRE
That means everything now belongs to him.
ORGON
Exactly.
DORINE put her hands on her head.
DORINE
This disaster grows larger every moment.
ORGON walked nervously across the room.
ORGON
But that is not the worst part.
ELMIRE
There is something worse?
ORGON nodded.
ORGON
Yes.
He lowered his voice.
ORGON
I also entrusted him with an important box.
DORINE
What box?
ORGON
A box containing documents.
ELMIRE
What kind of documents?
ORGON hesitated again.
ORGON
Documents belonging to a friend of mine.
DORINE
And why are they dangerous?
ORGON sighed.
ORGON
Because if they fall into the wrong hands, they could cause serious trouble with the authorities.
ELMIRE looked alarmed.
ELMIRE
And Tartuffe now possesses them?
ORGON
Yes.
DORINE
Then he has power over you!
ORGON nodded grimly.
ORGON
Exactly.
ELMIRE walked slowly across the room, thinking carefully.
ELMIRE
This changes everything.
DORINE
Yes. That man could destroy the whole family.
ORGON clenched his fists.
ORGON
No! I will not allow it.
DORINE
But what can you do?
ORGON spoke firmly.
ORGON
First, I must find my son DAMIS and ask his forgiveness.
ELMIRE smiled slightly.
ELMIRE
That would be a good beginning.
ORGON nodded.
ORGON
And then we must recover those papers from Tartuffe.
DORINE crossed her arms.
DORINE
That will not be easy.
ORGON looked determined.
ORGON
Easy or not, it must be done.
ELMIRE looked toward the door thoughtfully.
ELMIRE
I fear Tartuffe will not remain quiet after this.
DORINE nodded.
DORINE
Hypocrites are rarely peaceful when they lose power.
ORGON took a deep breath.
ORGON
Let him try whatever he wishes. Now that I know the truth, I will fight him openly.
ELMIRE watched him carefully.
ELMIRE
I hope it is not already too late.
Outside, distant footsteps could be heard approaching the house.
Part 11
The footsteps outside grew louder.
A moment later the door opened and a man entered. He carried papers and wore the formal clothes of an officer of the law.
DORINE looked at him suspiciously.
DORINE
Who are you, sir?
M. LOYAL bowed politely.
M. LOYAL
My name is Monsieur Loyal. I come here on official business.
ORGON stepped forward.
ORGON
Official business? What business do you have in my house?
M. LOYAL
I regret that my visit may disturb you. But I am required to inform you of a legal matter.
ORGON
What matter?
M. LOYAL opened his papers.
M. LOYAL
According to a document properly signed and witnessed earlier today, this house and all property belonging to it now belong to Monsieur Tartuffe.
DORINE
What!
ELMIRE remained silent but pale.
ORGON stared at the man.
ORGON
You must be mistaken.
M. LOYAL
I assure you that I am not mistaken.
ORGON
That is impossible!
M. LOYAL calmly showed him the document.
M. LOYAL
Here is the paper, signed by your own hand.
ORGON looked at it and groaned.
ORGON
Yes… it is my signature.
DORINE
Then that villain has wasted no time.
M. LOYAL continued speaking politely.
M. LOYAL
As the new owner of the house, Monsieur Tartuffe has asked that you and your family leave the property.
ORGON
Leave?
M. LOYAL
Yes. I am here to prepare the necessary arrangements.
DORINE
Prepare them for what?
M. LOYAL
For your departure tomorrow morning.
ORGON was furious.
ORGON
This is outrageous!
M. LOYAL
I understand that such news is unpleasant.
ORGON
Unpleasant? It is robbery!
M. LOYAL
I only follow the law.
ELMIRE stepped forward calmly.
ELMIRE
Sir, surely some time can be allowed for us to prepare.
M. LOYAL
Naturally. The law is not without kindness.
DORINE muttered quietly.
DORINE
Kindness! What a word.
M. LOYAL continued.
M. LOYAL
You may remain here tonight. Tomorrow the house must be delivered to its new owner.
ORGON paced across the room in anger.
ORGON
That traitor! That thief!
M. LOYAL spoke gently.
M. LOYAL
I advise you, sir, to accept the situation peacefully.
DORINE whispered to ELMIRE.
DORINE
Listen to how politely he steals the house.
ELMIRE spoke again.
ELMIRE
Very well. We will obey the law.
M. LOYAL bowed.
M. LOYAL
Your cooperation will make this process easier for everyone.
ORGON suddenly stopped walking.
ORGON
Tell Monsieur Tartuffe this from me.
M. LOYAL
What message shall I deliver?
ORGON
Tell him that I curse the day I ever welcomed him into my house.
M. LOYAL sighed softly.
M. LOYAL
Such emotions are understandable.
DORINE laughed bitterly.
DORINE
Understandable indeed.
M. LOYAL gathered his papers.
M. LOYAL
I will return tomorrow morning to complete the arrangements.
ELMIRE nodded.
ELMIRE
Very well.
M. LOYAL bowed again and exited.
The room fell silent.
ORGON collapsed into a chair.
ORGON
My house… my fortune… everything lost because of that hypocrite.
ELMIRE placed a hand on his shoulder.
ELMIRE
Do not lose courage.
ORGON
How can I not lose courage?
DORINE crossed her arms.
DORINE
Perhaps the story is not finished yet.
ORGON looked up.
ORGON
What do you mean?
DORINE
That man may believe he has won, but the law can still surprise him.
ELMIRE nodded slowly.
ELMIRE
Yes… perhaps justice will appear at the last moment.
ORGON shook his head.
ORGON
I fear we have already lost.
Just then CLEANTE entered quickly.
CLEANTE
I have heard the news.
DORINE
Then you know everything.
CLEANTE
Yes. Tartuffe has moved quickly.
ORGON
Too quickly.
CLEANTE looked thoughtful.
CLEANTE
Still, I believe the king’s justice may yet protect you.
ORGON
You still hope for justice?
CLEANTE
Yes. Hypocrisy often destroys itself.
DORINE nodded.
DORINE
That is true.
ELMIRE listened quietly.
ELMIRE
But we must prepare for the worst.
ORGON sighed deeply.
ORGON
Tomorrow we may be homeless.
CLEANTE spoke firmly.
CLEANTE
Let us wait until tomorrow comes.
At that moment another knock was heard at the door.
DORINE looked toward it nervously.
DORINE
Who could that be now?
CLEANTE went to the door and opened it.
A POLICE OFFICER entered the room.
The family looked at him with fear and confusion.
Part 12
The POLICE OFFICER stepped into the room with calm authority.
Everyone looked at him anxiously.
ORGON
Sir, what brings you here?
POLICE OFFICER
I have come to carry out an order.
ORGON sighed heavily.
ORGON
Then it is true. Tartuffe has already called the authorities.
POLICE OFFICER
Monsieur Tartuffe informed us of a matter concerning certain documents.
ORGON’s face grew pale.
ORGON
The box…
ELMIRE looked at him quickly.
ELMIRE
Do not speak too soon.
POLICE OFFICER
I am searching for a man named Orgon.
ORGON stepped forward.
ORGON
I am that man.
POLICE OFFICER studied him carefully.
POLICE OFFICER
Then you must come with me.
DORINE cried out.
DORINE
Arrest him?
ORGON raised his hands calmly.
ORGON
Yes… I expected this.
CLEANTE stepped forward.
CLEANTE
Sir, may we at least understand the accusation?
POLICE OFFICER
Certain papers were placed in the hands of Monsieur Tartuffe.
ORGON spoke bitterly.
ORGON
Yes. Papers that I foolishly entrusted to him.
POLICE OFFICER
Those papers concern matters of great importance to the state.
ORGON bowed his head.
ORGON
I see.
ELMIRE stepped forward bravely.
ELMIRE
My husband acted only out of friendship. He meant no harm.
POLICE OFFICER
Perhaps.
ORGON spoke quietly.
ORGON
There is no need to defend me. I deserve the consequences of my blindness.
DORINE looked angrily toward the door.
DORINE
That hypocrite planned everything.
CLEANTE remained calm.
CLEANTE
Sir, surely the authorities will examine the entire situation before judging.
POLICE OFFICER nodded slightly.
POLICE OFFICER
The king is well known for his wisdom and fairness.
ORGON looked up with surprise.
ORGON
The king?
POLICE OFFICER
Yes.
He paused a moment.
POLICE OFFICER
The king has been informed of this matter.
Everyone in the room held their breath.
POLICE OFFICER continued.
POLICE OFFICER
And after careful consideration, he has made his judgment.
ORGON spoke quietly.
ORGON
Then I am ready to hear it.
POLICE OFFICER turned toward the door.
POLICE OFFICER
Bring him in.
Two guards entered the room.
Between them stood TARTUFFE.
TARTUFFE looked confident.
TARTUFFE
Ah, Monsieur Orgon. Justice has arrived.
ORGON looked at him with anger but said nothing.
TARTUFFE turned toward the officer.
TARTUFFE
Sir, this is the man I accuse.
POLICE OFFICER nodded calmly.
POLICE OFFICER
Yes.
TARTUFFE smiled slightly.
TARTUFFE
Then you will arrest him at once.
POLICE OFFICER raised his hand.
POLICE OFFICER
Yes.
He turned suddenly toward the guards.
POLICE OFFICER
Arrest this man.
The guards immediately seized TARTUFFE.
TARTUFFE stared in shock.
TARTUFFE
What! What are you doing?
POLICE OFFICER
Executing the king’s order.
TARTUFFE
There must be some mistake!
POLICE OFFICER
No mistake.
He looked at Tartuffe sternly.
POLICE OFFICER
The king has long known of your crimes. You have used false religion to deceive many honest people.
TARTUFFE struggled.
TARTUFFE
This is impossible!
POLICE OFFICER
Your hypocrisy has been exposed.
TARTUFFE
I demand justice!
POLICE OFFICER
You will receive justice in prison.
The guards held him firmly.
ORGON stared in astonishment.
ORGON
Is this truly happening?
POLICE OFFICER turned toward him.
POLICE OFFICER
Yes.
He spoke with dignity.
POLICE OFFICER
The king understands that you were deceived by a dangerous hypocrite.
ORGON bowed deeply.
ORGON
May Heaven bless the king for his wisdom.
POLICE OFFICER
The king also orders that your property be returned to you.
DORINE clapped her hands with joy.
DORINE
Wonderful!
ELMIRE smiled with relief.
ELMIRE
Justice has prevailed.
CLEANTE nodded.
CLEANTE
The king has shown great wisdom indeed.
TARTUFFE cried out in despair.
TARTUFFE
This cannot be happening!
POLICE OFFICER spoke firmly.
POLICE OFFICER
Take him away.
The guards led TARTUFFE toward the door.
TARTUFFE struggled helplessly.
TARTUFFE
You will regret this!
But no one listened.
The guards dragged him out of the room.
Silence filled the house.
ORGON slowly turned toward his family.
ORGON
What happiness after so much misery.
ELMIRE smiled gently.
ELMIRE
Truth always finds its way to the light.
CLEANTE spoke calmly.
CLEANTE
Let this be a lesson for us all.
ORGON nodded.
ORGON
Yes. From now on I will trust reason more than appearances.
DORINE laughed.
DORINE
And perhaps listen to your family once in a while.
ORGON smiled.
ORGON
Yes… that too.
He turned toward MARIANE, who had just entered the room.
ORGON
My daughter, your marriage with Valere shall take place at once.
MARIANE’s face filled with joy.
MARIANE
Thank you, father.
CLEANTE spoke warmly.
CLEANTE
Then let us celebrate the end of this strange adventure.
ORGON looked around the room at his family and friends.
ORGON
Yes. Let us celebrate honesty and truth.
They all smiled as peace finally returned to the house.