These are the best of Moliere's masterful one-acts, blending broad farce and pointed wit to express his never-ending delight in human foibles. But Moliere is more than just the "master of the laugh," for behind the comic gestures of these matchless rogues, tight-fisted masters, possessive lovers and elegant ladies lurk fears, insecurities and their consequences. Includes: The Jealous Husband, The Flying Doctor, Two Precious Maidens Ridiculed, The Imaginary Cuckold, The Rehearsal at Versailles, The Forced Marriage, The Seductive Mistress.

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Moliere is considered the Shakespeare of France. Moliere's plays are enacted throughout the world in virtually every language, as much today as ever.

First published as an Oxford World's Classics paperback, 2001.

Translates seven plays of Molière and comments upon the background of each dramatization.