Moliere

Playwright, Actor

Moliere was a 17th-century French playwright known for his sharp wit and keen observations of human nature, particularly in works like 'Tartuffe'.

Born
January 15, 1622
Died
February 17, 1673
Quotes
250
Rank
#149

About Moliere

Moliere — Life and Legacy

Moliere, born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, was a pivotal figure in French literature and theater during the 17th century. His works, such as 'Tartuffe' and 'The Misanthrope', are celebrated for their incisive commentary on society and human behavior. Moliere's core thinking revolved around the absurdities of human nature, often exposing the hypocrisy and folly of his characters. For instance, his quote, 'The duty of a comedian is to make people laugh', underscores his belief in the power of comedy to reflect societal truths. Through humor, he challenged the norms of his time, particularly regarding morality and social pretenses. Moliere's influence endures as his quotes continue to resonate, prompting audiences to reflect on their own behaviors and societal expectations. His ability to weave humor with critical insight makes his work timeless and relevant, inviting readers to confront the complexities of human relationships.

Quote collection

Moliere quotes (page 1 of 13)

250 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.

Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"A wise man is superior to any insults which can be put upon him, and the best reply to unseemly behavior is patience and moderation."

Read quote 149 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"All the ills of mankind, all the tragic misfortunes that fill the history books, all the political blunders, all the failures of the great leaders have arisen merely from a lack of skill at dancing."

Read quote 125 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"Writing is like prostitution. First you do it for love, and then for a few close friends, and then for money."

Read quote 105 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"The most effective way of attacking vice is to expose it to public ridicule. People can put up with rebukes but they cannot bear being laughed at: they are prepared to be wicked but they dislike appearing ridiculous."

Read quote 100 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"I assure you, an educated fool is more foolish than an uneducated one."

Read quote 83 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"People spend most of their lives worrying about things that never happen."

Read quote 78 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"I want people to be sincere; a man of honor shouldn't speak a single word that doesn't come straight from his heart."

Read quote 77 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"I hate all men, the ones because they are mean and vicious, and the others for being complaisant with the vicious ones."

Read quote 73 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"Great is the fortune of he who possesses a good bottle, a good book, and a good friend."

Read quote 62 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"Folk whose own behavior is most ridiculous are always to the fore in slandering others."

Read quote 58 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"To find yourself jilted is a blow to your pride. Do your best to forget it and if you don't succeed, at least pretend to."

Read quote 58 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"People are all alike in their promises. It is only in their deeds that they differ."

Read quote 49 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"Every good act is charity. A man's true wealth hereafter is the good that he does in this world to his fellows."

Read quote 46 likes
Moliere Playwright, Actor
Popular

"People can be induced to swallow anything, provided it is sufficiently seasoned with praise."

Read quote 44 likes