The composition of the work of the tradesman in the nobility. An analysis of Molière's comedy "The tradesman in the nobility. The history of the creation of the play

Retelling of "The tradesman in the nobility"

A curtain! Now you will see a particle of the life of the "venerable" Mr. Jourdain, who decided to become a noble gentleman.

And the pursuit of aristocracy began. He hired tailors, teachers, who began to make him a nobleman. Each of them sought to cheat Jourdain, while saying exorbitant compliments to his taste, talent and education.

Jourdain appears, immediately offering to appreciate the extravagant dressing gown present. Of course, the admiration of the teachers knew no bounds, because the amount of money received directly depended on the assessment of the owner's taste.

They vied with each other to invite him to take up music and dancing - classes for noblemen. The musician insists on weekly home concerts. The dancer immediately rushes to teach Jourdain the minuet.

However, the graceful movements are interrupted by the fencing teacher, who declared that his subject is the science of sciences. Carried away by the dispute, the teachers reached the assault.

The philosophy teacher who came at the request of Jourdain tried to reconcile the fighting. But as soon as he advised the teachers to take up philosophy - the most important of the sciences, he was drawn into a fight.

The rather shabby philosopher nevertheless proceeded to the lesson. However, Jourdain refused to deal with ethics and logic. Then the teacher began to talk about pronunciation, the process of which aroused simply the childish joy of the owner. Just as great was Jourdain's delight at the discovery that he spoke in prose.

An attempt to improve the text of the note to the lady of the heart of Jourdain failed. The venerable bourgeois left his version as the best.

The tailor who came for Jourdain turned out to be more important than all kinds of sciences, so the philosopher had to retire. A new suit in the latest aristocratic fashion, spiced with flattery in the form of "your lordship", significantly devastated the tradesman's wallet.

The sober-minded wife of the bourgeois is categorically against Jourdain's walk through the Parisian streets, because even without this he became a laughingstock in the city. The desire to impress the spouse and maid with the fruits of training did not bring success. Nicole said “y” absolutely calmly, without thinking about how she does it, and then, without any rules, she stabbed her master with a sword.

And here is Jourdain's new "friend" - Count Dorant, a squandered rogue and liar. Entering the living room, he, among other things, noticed that he was talking about the owner of the house in the royal chambers. The count has already borrowed 15,800 livres from the gullible bourgeois and now he has come to borrow another 2,000. And in gratitude for this, he decides to set up amorous affairs between Jourdain and the Marquise Dorimena, for whom the dinner party was started.

Madame Jourdain is concerned about the fate of her daughter, because Cleont, a young man, whom Lucille reciprocates, asks for her hand. The maid Nicole brings the young man to Jourdain. But he sees his daughter as a marquise or a duchess, so he refuses Cleont.

The young man is in despair, but his nimble servant Coviel, who, by the way, claims to be Nicole's hand, decides to help the owner. He comes up with something that should lead Jourdain to agree to marriage.

Dorimena and Dorant arrive. The count brings the widowed marquise by no means to please the owner of the house. He has been chasing a noble lady for a long time, and the insane spending of a crazy bourgeois is in his favor. After all, he attributes them to himself.

Not without pleasure, the marquise sits down at a luxurious table and absorbs gourmet dishes under the bizarre compliments of a strange man.

The magnificent atmosphere is disturbed by the appearance of an angry mistress of the house. Jourdain assures her that the Count is providing dinner. But Madame Jourdain does not believe her husband. Dorimena, offended by the accusations against her, followed by Dorant and leave the house.

After the departure of the aristocrats, a new guest appears. This is Coviel in disguise, who tells that supposedly Jourdain's father was not a merchant, but a real nobleman.

After such a statement, he can safely hang any noodles on his ears. Koviel says that the son of the Turkish Sultan arrived in the capital, who, seeing Lucille, became mad with love and wants to marry her. But before that, he wants to dedicate the future father-in-law to the Turkish nobleman - mammushi.

The son of the Turkish sultan is Cleont in disguise, speaking in gibberish, which Coviel gravely translates into French. All this is accompanied by Turkish music, dances, songs. The future mamamushi, as it should be according to the ritual, is beaten with sticks.

Dorant and Dorimena return to the house and seriously congratulate Jourdain on his high title. The newly minted "nobleman" is eager to marry his daughter to the son of the Turkish Sultan. Lucille, recognizing a disguised lover in the Turkish jester, dutifully agrees to fulfill the will of her father. After Koviel whispers to Madame Jourdain in the true state of things, and she changes her anger to mercy.

Father's blessing received. The messenger was sent for a notary, whose services also decided to use Dorant and Dorimena.

While waiting for the representative of the law, who will officially seal the upcoming marriages, the guests enjoy the ballet staged by the dance teacher.

After viewing the retelling of "The Philistine in the Nobility", pay attention to other writings related to Molière.

This work was written in 1670. The storyline is built around one ignorant gentleman who is trying in any way to join the "upper class". A summary of Molière's comedy "The Philistine in the Nobility" by actions and phenomena will show the reader how stupid and uncouth a person with big money can be, who does not understand that the mind cannot be bought for money.

Main characters

• Mister Jourdain- a tradesman who dreams of becoming a nobleman.
• Mrs. Jourdain wife of Jourdain.
• Lucille is the only daughter of M. Jourdain.
• Nicole- a maid in M. Jourdain's house.
• Cleont- In love with Lucille.
• Coviel- Cleont's servant.
• Dorimena- marquise.
• Dorant- Count. In love with Dorimena.

Minor characters

• Music teacher
• Music teacher's apprentice
• Dance teacher
• fencing teacher
• philosophy teacher
• Tailor
• tailor's apprentice
• Lackeys

Act one

The first phenomenon

In the house of Mr. Jourdain guests: teachers, singers, musicians, dancers. A music teacher's apprentice composes a melody for a serenade ordered by the master. Everyone is waiting for the arrival of the owner. Teachers believe that he is slightly obsessed with the nobility and secular manners. They are offended to speak in front of a person who does not understand anything in art, but they are ready to turn a blind eye to this. Good money is promised for the performance.

The second phenomenon

Jourdain appears dressed, who knows. He is delighted with the custom-made robe. The merchant boasts of a new thing in anticipation of compliments. The outfit is ridiculous, but the teachers flatter, admiring the fine taste.

The music teacher asks to listen to the music written by the student. Jourdain doubts the student's abilities. The man is puzzled as to how it is more convenient to listen to music, with or without a bathrobe. The music doesn't excite him. He begins to hum his song, believing that he performs it perfectly. He is showered with praise. The teachers suggest that he take music and dance lessons, as it should be in high society.

Action two

The first phenomenon

Ballet, serenade - everything was started for the sake of the person invited to the evening, to whom M. Jourdain was not indifferent. The music teacher advises Jourdain himself to give concerts at home, as is customary among noblemen. The merchant worries about how good the ballet will be. They calm him down. Everything should go perfectly. The viewer will not resist the minuets. He starts to dance. He is being hailed again. Jourdain asks to teach him how to bow correctly, so as not to goof off in front of the Marquise Dorimena.

The second phenomenon

Servants announce the arrival of the fencing master.

The third phenomenon

The teacher gives the basic rules of combat in fencing. Everyone admires how deftly Jourdain swings the rapier. The fencing master convinces everyone that his science is the most important. Verbal skirmish turns into a fight.

The fourth phenomenon

A teacher of philosophy appears on the threshold. Jourdain asks to reconcile the angry teachers. Trying to calm the quarreling, the philosopher is drawn into the dispute. The situation is tense to the limit.

Fifth phenomenon

Jourdain waves at the fighters. You shouldn't separate them. Suddenly a new coat will suffer.

The sixth phenomenon

Jourdain regrets that the philosophy teacher is so shabby after a fight with colleagues. The teacher is trying to find out which science the master has more of a soul for: logic, ethics, physics. Jourdain's logic did not inspire. Ethics he considered useless. Physics is too fancy. We settled on spelling. Jourdain shares a secret that he has been crazy about one lady for a long time and wants to write her a note in which he confesses his feelings.

The seventh phenomenon

Jourdain is excited. There is no costume ordered for the evening. Swear words are poured into the tailor's address.

The eighth phenomenon

The tailor delivers a suit tailored to the latest fashion trends. Jourdain appraisingly looks at the new thing, noticing that the flowers are sewn with buds down. The tailor assures that this is the beauty of it.

The ninth phenomenon

Apprentices, dancing, help to change into new clothes, along the way spraying praise and receiving generous tips for this.

The tenth phenomenon

Apprentices dance, rejoicing at the unheard of generosity of the owner.

Act Three

The first phenomenon

Jourdain decided to walk the new suit, accompanied by lackeys, so that they could see what an important person was walking.

The second phenomenon

Seeing the owner, the maid laughs hysterically. It was possible to stop the impudent only under the threat of a weighty slap in the face. Nicole is tasked with cleaning the house. There will be guests.

The third phenomenon

Ms.'s reaction is no better than Nicole's. The jester is the jester. The woman is trying to reason with her husband that he does not need lessons with teachers. They all want one thing, to rip off more money for the lessons. There is zero sense from teachers, but dirt has been trampled.

Jourdain tries to impress by showing what he has been taught, but to no avail. The maid makes sounds, just as he was taught. Yes, and she coped with the rapier at once.

The lady blamed the noble gentlemen who constantly visit them for everything. She is convinced that her husband is being used as a wallet, unlike him, who believes that friendship with the gentlemen promises beneficial cooperation in the future. An example of this is an earl who borrowed a decent amount. She is sure that he will not return the debt.

The fourth phenomenon

The graph appears. The gentlemen exchange pleasantries. Dorant starts talking about the amount he owes. The count asks to add some money to him in order to round up the borrowed amount. The lady winks at her husband, hinting at how right she was about this scoundrel.

Fifth phenomenon

Dorant notices that Ms. is not in a good mood. He wonders what is the reason and notices that he has not seen her daughter for a long time. The count invites the ladies to a court performance.

The sixth phenomenon

Jourdain brings money to Dorant. Dorant promises that there will be the best seats in the hall for Ms. The count reports to the master that the marquise has received a note and promised to come and dine. The diamond, a gift from Jourdain, Dorimena took, but I had to persuade her. The marquise is very pleased with the attention given to her. Jourdain vows that he will do everything possible on the way to her heart. The maid eavesdrops on the men's conversation.

The seventh phenomenon

Nicole reports to Mrs. that her husband is up to something. The lady replies that she has long suspected her husband of hitting on someone. Now the woman is worried about the fate of her daughter. Cleont is in love with Lucille. The guy liked Mrs. She wanted to help him marry Lucille.

Nicole liked the idea. If Cleont marries Lucille, then she will be able to marry his servant, who was attractive to her. The mistress sends a maid to Cleont with a request to come to their house. Together they must persuade Jourdain to agree to the marriage.

The eighth phenomenon

Nicole rushes with joyful news to Cleont. However, instead of reciprocal joy, he hears angry speeches. The servant is with him. The girl does not understand the reason for such behavior. Disappointed, she leaves the house.

The ninth phenomenon

Cleont complains to the servant about how cruelly he was treated in the bride's house. Lucille doesn't look at him at all. The girl walked by as if they didn't know each other. What did he do wrong? After all, his intentions for her are sincere. The guy assumes that the Count, who often visits the bride's house, is to blame. He is rich and famous. Great match for her. While they were discussing various versions of what was happening, Lucille appeared on the threshold of the house along with Nicole.

The tenth phenomenon

Young people bicker, making accusations against each other. The reason for Lucille's behavior became clear when she outlined the morning's situation. The aunt with whom she walked in the morning said that men should be wary of. When you see them, run away. That's the whole secret.

The eleventh phenomenon

Madame is glad to see Cleont. They are going to wait for the arrival of Mr. Jourdain to ask for consent to the marriage.

The twelfth phenomenon

Having indicated the purpose of the visit, Cleont hears a question about his origin. Hearing the answer that the future son-in-law has nothing to do with the nobility, Mr. Jourdain refuses to marry. Madame Jourdain tried to side with Cleont, but to no avail. The husband did not listen to her. He did not dream of such a party for his daughter. He wants to see Lucille nothing more than a marchioness or a duchess.

The thirteenth phenomenon

Madame Jourdain calms the upset Cleonte. The daughter receives advice from her mother on how to behave with her father.

The fourteenth phenomenon

For Cleont, it was a complete surprise to learn that the future son-in-law must have noble roots. He is upset. Coviel offers to play Jourdain.

Fifteenth phenomenon

Jourdain wonders why everyone is trying to poke him once again with acquaintances with nobles. For him, there is nothing more pleasant than such connections. He would have given anything in the world to be born a marquis or a count.

The sixteenth phenomenon

The servant informs Jourdain that the count has come into the house with some lady on his arm.

The seventeenth phenomenon

The footman reports to the guests that the master will soon come out.

The eighteenth phenomenon

Dorimen is tormented by doubts whether she did the right thing by arriving in an unfamiliar house. The Count convinces her that she did everything right. He himself has long been in love with her, but he did not have the opportunity to see her either at home or at her home. This could compromise the marquise.

The Marchioness is flattered by the Count's attention. She thanks him for the gifts she received from him. Especially for a diamond that has no price. The woman does not even realize that the arrogant count passed off the gifts from Jourdain as his own, wanting to express his love in this way.

The nineteenth phenomenon

Jourdain bows to the marquise, but the bow came out so clumsy that the guests could hardly contain their chuckles. The welcome speech was no better. Dorant hints that it's time to dine.

The twentieth phenomenon

The guests go to the laid table. They are called singers.

The twenty-first event

The chefs preparing dinner are dancing in anticipation of the holiday.

act four

The first phenomenon

Dorimena is delighted with the sumptuous feast. Mr. Jourdain non-stop weighs out compliments to the dear guest. In the meantime, he draws attention to the diamond on Dorimena's finger. He's sure she knows who the ring is from.

The second phenomenon

Suddenly, Mrs. appears and rolls up a scandal. She understood for whom everything was started. That's where the husband is wasting money. Feast, singers, dancers, and her beyond the threshold. Dorant takes the hit. He justifies Mr., explaining that all the costs are from his funds, but the lady does not believe in this nonsense. Insulted, Dorimena runs out from the table. Dorant is behind her.

The third phenomenon

Spouses bicker with each other.

The fourth phenomenon

Mr. is unhappy that his wife appeared ahead of time and ruined everything, and yet he had just begun to strike those present with his wit and was clearly on a roll.

Fifth phenomenon

Coviel appears in disguise, posing as a close friend of the late father, M. Jourdain. Herr does not recognize him as Cleont's servant. Coviel puzzled him by mentioning that he remembers the deceased as if he were a true nobleman. Jourdain is at a loss, because everyone assured him that his father was a merchant.

The next news is even more stunning. Koviel talks about a friend, the son of a Turkish sultan, who is allegedly in love with Lucille. A young man is ready to marry a girl if he receives approval from her father, but before that, it is necessary to conduct a special ceremony on the future father-in-law, initiation into mammamushi. Then Jourdain will receive the most honorary dignity, standing on a par with the noblest nobles.

Jourdain says that her daughter is in love with Cleont and has vowed to marry only him. Koviel reassures him, saying that, by coincidence, his friend is like two drops of water like him.

The sixth phenomenon

Cleont appears, disguised as a Turk. He asks Jourdain to begin preparations for the ceremony as soon as possible.

The seventh phenomenon

Koviel is pleased with himself. He got it all right.

The eighth phenomenon

Coviel asks Dorant to play along with them in a masquerade with their participation.

The ninth phenomenon

Beginning of the Turkish ceremony.

The tenth phenomenon

M. Jourdain was dressed in Turkish clothes and shaved bald. Everyone dances and sings.

The eleventh phenomenon

Turks sing in their own language and dance national dances. The fun continues.

The twelfth phenomenon

Turks dance and sing.

The thirteenth phenomenon

Jourdain in a turban with a saber in his hands. The mufti and the dervishes conduct an initiation ceremony during which they beat with sticks to the beat of Jourdain's music. Only in this way can Mohammed be invoked.

Act Five

The first phenomenon

Madame Jourdain, looking at her husband in a new guise, begins to think that he has gone mad. Jourdain explains to his wife that now he is a mother and requires a respectful attitude towards himself.

The second phenomenon

Dorant had to try hard to persuade Dorimena to return to the Jourdain house. It is necessary to support Kleont with a prank. Marquise agrees to marriage with Dorant, but henceforth asks him not to be so wasteful.

The third phenomenon

Dorimena and Dorant congratulate Jourdain on his new title.

The fourth phenomenon

Dorant bows to the disguised Cleont, convincing of his devotion.

Fifth phenomenon

Mr. Jourdain introduces Dorant and Dorimena to Cleonte, explaining that these people are his close friends and they are ready to pay their respects to the Turkish guest.

The sixth phenomenon

Mr. Jourdain asks his daughter to come closer and meet her future husband. Lucille doesn't understand. She thinks her father is joking. The girl is against marriage, but having recognized the disguised Cleont in the Turk, she agrees to marriage.

The seventh phenomenon

Ms. against marriage with a foreigner. Coviel explains to her that this is a game. Send for a notary. Dorant announces to Mrs. that now she will have no reason for jealousy. They have a wedding soon with the Marchioness. While waiting for the notary, everyone watches the ballet, continuing to have fun.

theme, idea, main idea

"The tradesman in the nobility" analysis

"The tradesman in the nobility" - comedy-ballet in five acts by Molière and Jean-Baptiste Lully, written in 1670.

Literary direction— classicism

Genre- social comedy, with elements of love and socio-psychological comedy

Subject- the desire of the wealthy bourgeois Jourdain to get into high society

"The tradesman in the nobility" problems

• a person's place in society; the factors by which this place is determined;
• dominating moral ideals in the state;
• problems of education, upbringing, art, love, human dignity, etc.

the main idea- exposure of social and human vices

Main characters— Mr. Jourdain, Mrs. Jourdain, Lucille, Cleont, Dorant, Dorimena, Kovel, Nicole

Artistic features of "The tradesman in the nobility"

The comedy was written within the framework of classicism, it retains the trinity that is obligatory for a classical play:

• unity of place (M. Jourdain's house),
• time (the action is 24 hours)
• action (the whole play is built around one main idea).

In each of the main characters, one leading feature in satirical exaggeration is emphasized.

"The tradesman in the nobility" plot

The action takes place in the house of Mr. Jourdain, a tradesman. Count Dorant, who borrowed money from Jourdain, was in love with an aristocrat, the Marquise Dorimena. Jourdain, in an effort to appear taller and win the favor of the count, tries to imitate the nobility in everything. Madame Jourdain and her maid Nicole make fun of him. Wishing to become a nobleman, Jourdain refuses Cleont the hand of his daughter Lucille. Then the servant of Cleont, Coviel, comes up with a trick: under the guise of a Turkish dervish, he initiates Mr. Jourdain into an imaginary Turkish noble dignity. mamamushi and arranges for Lucille to marry Turkish Sultan's son, who is actually Cleon in disguise as a Turk.

"The tradesman in the nobility" summary by chapter- will tell in detail about the actions in the play, about the actions of the characters. you can also read on our website.

"The tradesman in the nobility" Molière summary by chapter

Action 1 summary "The tradesman in the nobility"

Mr. Jourdain is literally obsessed with breaking out of the philistines into the nobility. Through his work he (hereditary merchant) earned a lot of money and now generously spends them on teachers and "noble" outfits, trying with all his might to master "noble manners".

The music teacher and dance teacher discuss how lucky they are with Jourdain: “We found exactly the kind of person we need. Monsieur Jourdain, with his obsession with nobility and secular manners, is simply a treasure for us. His knowledge is not great, he judges everything at random and applauds where he should not, but money straightens the curvature of his judgments, his common sense is in his wallet. Teachers zealously flatter his "fine" taste and "brilliant" abilities. Mr. Jourdain ordered a music teacher to compose a performance with a serenade and dances. He intends to impress the Marquise Dorimena, whom he likes, whom he invited to dine at his house. Of course, without the mediation of a real nobleman, Jourdain would never have achieved such an honor. But he has an assistant. This is Count Dorant. Borrowing money from Jourdain and extorting gifts for the marchioness (which he then presents to her on his own behalf), Dorant constantly promises that he will soon give Jourdain the borrowed amount.

Jourdain himself appears. He boasts to the teachers of his new robe. The tailor said that all the nobility wear these, so he should too. The dance teacher and the music teacher ask Jourdain to look at what they have composed especially for today's celebration (a noble lady, the Marquise, with whom he is in love, will come to Jourdain for dinner) . Jourdain indifferently looks at what the teachers present to him, he does not understand this, but he does not show it, since all noble people should understand art. Regarding the ballet, he releases such a remark: “It’s very cool: the dancers break off famously.”

Action 2 summary "The tradesman in the nobility"

Teachers offer Jourdain to study music and dance. When Jourdain finds out that all noble people learn this, he agrees. Moreover, teachers give such “convincing” arguments, for example: all wars on earth come from ignorance of music and inability to dance, because if everyone studied music, this would set people in a peaceful mood.

Jourdain asks the dance teacher to teach him how to bow, as he will have to bow to the marquise. “If you wish it to be a respectful bow,” says the teacher, “then first step back and bow once, then approach her with three bows and finally bow at her feet.” The swordsman enters. His lesson begins. He explains to Jourdain that the whole secret of fencing is, firstly, to strike the enemy, and secondly, so as not to receive such blows yourself, and for this you only need to learn how to take the enemy’s sword away from your body with a slight movement of the hand - to yourself or away from yourself. The next lesson is a lesson in philosophy. The teacher asks what he would like to learn. To which Jourdain replies: "Everything I can, because I want to become a scientist." The philosopher offers Jourdain a choice of several topics - logic, ethics, physics. Jourdain asks to explain what these objects are, hears many unfamiliar and complex words and decides that this is not for him. He asks the teacher to take spelling lessons with him. For a whole lesson, they analyze how vowels are pronounced. Jourdain rejoices like a child: it turns out that he knew much of this before. But at the same time, he discovers many new things for himself, for example: to pronounce the sound, you need to bring your upper lips closer to the lower ones, without squeezing them, and stretch your lips and also bring them closer. At the same time, your lips are pulled out, as if you are grimacing. Jourdain exclaims to this: “Oh, why didn’t I study before! I would have known all this already.” Jourdain asks the philosopher to help him write a note, which he will drop at the feet of the Marquise. The philosophy teacher asks if the note should be written in prose or verse? Jourdain wants neither prose nor poetry. The philosopher explains that this cannot be, because what is not poetry, then prose, and what is not prose, then poetry. Jourdain discovers that he speaks in prose.

The tailor brings Jourdain to try on a suit. Jourdain notices that the tailor has a suit made of the same material as the suit he ordered from him before.

Jourdain complains that the shoes sent by the tailor are too tight for him, that the silk stockings were too tight and torn, that the pattern on the fabric of the suit is oriented incorrectly (flowers down).The apprentice, putting on a suit on Jourdain, calls him Your Grace, then Excellency, then Your Grace. At the same time, Jourdain gives him money for every word and thinks to himself that if it comes to “Your Highness”, then he will give the whole wallet. But it didn't come to that.

Action 3 summary "The tradesman in the nobility"

Nicole appears. Seeing her master in this ridiculous costume, the girl begins to laugh so much that even the threat of Jourdain to beat her does not stop laughter. Nicole makes fun of the host's predilection for "high society guests". In her opinion, they are much more than just going to him and eating at his expense, uttering meaningless phrases, and even dragging dirt onto the beautiful parquet in Mr. Jourdain's hall.

Miss Jourdain says:

“What is that on you, hubby, for a new outfit? Is it true that he decided to make people laugh, if he dressed up as a jester? To which he replies that if they show it, then only fools and fools.

Madame Jourdain confesses that she is ashamed of her husband's habits before her neighbors.

“You might think that we have a holiday every day: from the very morning, you know, they chirp on the violins, they yell songs.”

The wife is perplexed why Jourdain needed a dance teacher at his age: after all, his legs will soon be taken away by age. According to Madame Jourdain, one should think not about dancing, but about how to attach a bride-daughter.

Jourdain decides to show his wife and maid what he has learned, asks them questions: how to pronounce U, or whether they know how they are now speaking (in prose). Women cannot understand anything, Jourdain calls them ignoramuses. Then there is a demonstration of the art of fencing. Jourdain invites Nicole to stab him with a sword. She pricks several times. He yells to not so fast, otherwise he does not have time to repel the blow.

Madame Jourdain reproaches her husband for becoming obsessed with all these quirks after he decided to "associate with important gentlemen." Jourdain believes that this is much better than "to hang out with your townspeople." His wife claims that he is helpful only because he is rich and you can borrow money from him, citing Count Dorant as an example.

Dorant appears, lavishes compliments on Jourdain about his beautiful appearance, asks how much he owes him money. After the calculations came out the amount of fifteen thousand eight hundred. Dorant offers Jourdain to borrow another two hundred for good measure. Madame Jourdain calls her husband a "cash cow".

Jourdain and Dorant remain alone. They discuss the upcoming dinner today: Dorant will bring Dorimena under the guise of his friend. Dorant reminds Jourdain not to let slip about the diamond he gave Dorimene through him, because she doesn't like being reminded of it.

Nicole tells Madame Jourdain that the men are up to something. “My hubby has long been on my suspicion. I give my head to cut off that he is hitting someone, ”Mrs. Jourdain answers.

Cleont is in love with Lucille. Madame Jourdain advises him to ask her husband for the hand of her daughter. Jourdain, first of all, asks if he is a nobleman? The young man replies that he does not, and does not hide it. Jourdain refuses him. The wife reminds them that they themselves are philistines. The husband does not want to hear anything.

Dorant brings the Marchioness. Everything that Jourdain arranges for her here, he passes off as his own. The diamond is also counted among its gifts.

Jourdain appears and asks the marquise to take a step back, because he does not have enough space to bow.

Action 4 summary "The tradesman in the nobility"

Dorant appears, borrows money again, but at the same time mentions that he "spoke about Jourdain in the royal bedchamber." Hearing this, Jourdain ceases to be interested in the reasonable arguments of his wife and immediately delivers the required amount to Dorant. Privately, Dorant warns Jourdain that he should never remind Dorimene of his expensive gifts, as this is bad manners. In fact, he gave the marquise a luxurious ring with a diamond, as if from himself, because he wants to marry her. Jourdain informs Dorant that he is waiting for them with the Marquise today for a sumptuous dinner, and intends to send his wife to her sister. Nicole overhears part of the conversation and relays it to the owner.

Madame Jourdain decides not to leave the house anywhere, to catch her husband and, taking advantage of his confusion, get his consent to the marriage of their daughter Lucille with Cleont. Lucille loves Cleont, and Madame Jourdain herself considers him a very decent young man. Nicole also likes the servant of Cleont Coviel, so that as soon as the gentlemen get married, the servants also intend to celebrate the wedding.

Madame Jourdain advises Cleont to immediately ask for Lucille's hand in marriage with her father. Monsieur Jourdain asks if Cleont is a nobleman. Cleont, who does not consider it possible to lie to the father of his bride, admits that he is not a nobleman, although his ancestors held honorary positions and he himself honestly served for six years and independently amassed capital. All this does not interest Jourdain. He refuses Cleont, because he intends to marry his daughter so that "she will be honored." Madame Jourdain objects that it is better to marry a man "honest, rich and stately" than to enter into an unequal marriage. She does not want her grandchildren to be ashamed to call her grandmother, and her son-in-law reproached Lucille with her parents. Madame Jourdain is proud of her father: he traded honestly, worked hard, made a fortune for himself and his children. She wants everything to be "simple" in her daughter's family.

Coviel figures out how to deceive Jourdain by playing on his inflated vanity. He persuades Cleont to change into the dress of the "son of the Turkish Sultan", and he himself acts as an interpreter with him. Coviel begins to flatter Jourdain, saying that he knew his father well, who was a true nobleman. In addition, Covel assures that the son of the Turkish Sultan is in love with Lucille and intends to marry her immediately. However, in order for Jourdain to be of the same circle with him, the son of the Sultan intends to give him the title of "mamamushi", that is, a Turkish nobleman. Jourdain agrees.

Dorimena laments that he introduces Dorant into large expenses. She is fascinated by his manners, but is afraid of getting married. Dorimena is a widow, her first marriage was unsuccessful. Dorant reassures Dorimena, convinces that when marriage is based on mutual love, nothing is a hindrance. Dorant brings Dorimena to Jourdain's house. The owner, as his dance teacher taught him, begins to bow to the lady "according to science", while pushing her aside, since he does not have enough space for the third bow. At a sumptuous meal, Dorimena praises the host. He hints that his heart belongs to the Marquise. Ho in high society is just a phrase, so Dorimena does not pay attention to it. But she admits that she really likes the diamond ring allegedly donated by Dorant. Jourdain takes the compliment personally, but, mindful of Dorant's instructions (on the need to avoid "bad taste"), calls the diamond "a trifle."

At this moment Madame Jourdain bursts in. Oka reproaches her husband for dragging after the marchioness. Dorant explains that he organized the dinner for Dorimene, and Jourdain simply provided his house for their meetings (which is true, since Dorimene refused to meet him at her place or at his place). Jourdain, on the other hand, is once again grateful to Dorant: it seems to him that the count thought up everything so cleverly to help him, Jourdain. The ceremony of initiation of Jourdain into mother-mushi begins. Turks, dervishes and mufti appear. They sing some gibberish and dance around Jourdain, put the Koran on his back, clownish, put a turban on him and, handing him a Turkish saber, proclaim him a nobleman. Jourdain is happy.

Action 5 summary "The tradesman in the nobility"

Madame Jourdain, seeing all this masquerade, calls her husband crazy. Jourdain, on the other hand, behaves proudly, begins to give orders to his wife - like a true nobleman. Dorimena, in order not to plunge Dorant into even greater expenses, agrees to marry him immediately. Jourdain makes speeches to her in an oriental manner (with an abundance of verbose compliments). Jourdain calls the household and the notary, orders to proceed with the marriage ceremony of Lucille and the “son of the Sultan”. When Lucille and Madame Jourdain recognize Covel and Cleont, they willingly join in the play. Dorant, ostensibly to appease Madame Jourdain's jealousy, announces that he and Dorimene are also immediately married. Jourdain is happy: the daughter is obedient, the wife agrees with his "far-sighted" decision, and Dorant's act, as Jourdain thinks, is "to divert eyes" of his wife. Nicole Jourdain decides to "give" to the translator, i.e. Koviel.

For some time now, a rather successful bourgeois, M. Jourdain, has decided to become an aristocrat. For this, teachers, hairdressers and tailors were hired. The man thought that they would help him raise his social status. Jourdain's household did not support the aspirations of the head of the family.

The teachers vied with each other to advise the future aristocrat of their understanding of the beautiful, and of what, in their opinion, every self-respecting connoisseur of art should know. The dispute gradually turned into a fight. Horrible and teacher of philosophy, who tried to reconcile everyone.

M. Jourdain had a secret desire - to win the favor of a noble lady. That is why he tried his best to give himself an external gloss. Literature lessons were also successful. Now a man could beautifully state his feelings in a love note.

Jourdain's wife did not want to appear with her husband in public places, so they mocked him because of his quirks. Only teachers and tailors were in a winning position - the owner paid them extremely generously. And from the future aristocrat, his newly-made friends pulled money.

And now one came to visit Jourdain. It was Count Dorant. In addition to laudatory odes to the owner, the count promised to help arrange a meeting with the very lady with whom Jourdain was in love. To this end, a dinner was planned, where the Marquise Dormain and Jourdain would be introduced to each other.

Madame Jourdain was to go to her sister's for the time being. She had other concerns. A worthy young man named Cleont asked for the hand of their daughter Lucille. The girl agreed, but for the father the guy was not noble enough. Cleont's servant offered to achieve the blessing in another way.

In the midst of dinner, during which Jourdain tried to show off his sophistication in front of the beautiful marquise, his wife appears. She is outraged by her husband's behavior and is not shy about words. The marquise leaves the inhospitable house with the count.

Soon a new guest arrived. He said that the son of the Turkish sultan had visited Paris and was captivated by the beauty of Jourdain's daughter. And of course, he asks for her hand. The newly minted aristocrat was numb with happiness. He, of course, blessed the young in the presence of a notary. All this action was accompanied by oriental music and dances. And the Turks in disguise were Cleon and his servant.

Summary of "The tradesman in the nobility" Option 2

1. About the work
2. Main characters
3. Other characters
4. Summary
5. Conclusion

About the work

Moliere's comedy "The Philistine in the Nobility" was written in 1670. The work was created within the literary direction of realism. In the comedy "The Philistine in the Nobility", the author ridicules the typical bourgeois - the ignorant Mr. Jourdain, who tried to join the "upper class", but he only succeeded in clumsily imitating the life of the nobility.

If you need to quickly understand what Molière's story is about, we recommend that you read the summary of "The Tradesman in the Nobility" on the actions on our website. Also, this material will allow you to quickly prepare for the lesson of world literature. The play "The Philistine in the Nobility" is included in the 8th grade school curriculum.

Main characters

Mister Jourdain- a tradesman who wanted to be a nobleman. Those around him laughed at him, but played along with him for their own benefit.

Mrs. Jourdain- Mr. Jourdain's wife; did not share his desire to become a nobleman.

Cleont - young man, in love with Lucille.

Coviel- Cleont's servant.

Dorant- Count, an acquaintance of Jourdain, who constantly borrowed money from the tradesman. In love with Dorimena.

Other characters

Lucille- the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jourdain, in love with Cleont.

Nicole Lucille's maid.

Dorimena- marquise; Jourdain tried to win her favor through Dorant.

Teachers of dance, music, fencing, philosophy who were hired by Jourdain.

Act one

Phenomenon 1

Paris. Mister Jourdain's house. The music teacher and dance teacher prepare for the evening's performance and discuss that although Jourdain is not at all versed in the arts, "money straightens out the crookedness of his judgments, his common sense is in his wallet."

Phenomenon 2

Jourdain boasts to the teachers of his new robe, they flatter him in everything.

The sound of the violin seems mournful to the tradesman. Teachers note that Jourdain should study the arts, since "all the strife, all the wars on earth", "all the misfortunes with which history is full" come from ignorance of music and inability to dance.

Action two

Phenomenon 1

Jourdain orders that the ballet be ready by the evening, as the person for whom he arranges all this will arrive. The music teacher, anticipating good pay, advises the tradesman to give concerts on Wednesdays and Thursdays, as all noblemen do.

Phenomena 2-3

A visiting fencing teacher teaches a tradesman, explaining that “the whole secret of fencing is to<…>inflict blows on the enemy "and" do not receive such blows yourself. The fencing teacher expresses the idea that dance and music are useless sciences.
There is an argument between the teachers.

Apparitions 4-5

Jourdain asks the visiting teacher of philosophy to reconcile the quarreling. Referring to Seneca's treatise on anger, the philosopher tries to calm them down, but he himself gets involved in an argument that develops into a fight.

Phenomenon 6

Philosophy lesson. The teacher offers to teach Jourdain the wisdom of philosophy: logic, ethics and physics, but they do not arouse interest in the tradesman. Jourdain asks to teach him how to spell. The teacher tells him that there are vowels and consonants.

Jourdain asks the philosopher to help him write a love note, but in the end they settle on the original version of the tradesman: “Beautiful marquise, your beautiful eyes promise me death from love.” Suddenly, the tradesman learns that he has been expressing himself in prose all his life.

Apparitions 7-8

The tailor brings Jourdain a new suit. The tradesman notices that the suit is made of the same fabric as the clothes on the tailor, and the pattern (flowers) is upside down. The tailor reassures him with what is so fashionable in high society.

Apparitions 9-10

Dancing around Jourdain, the apprentices put on a new costume for him. They call the tradesman "Your Grace", "Your Excellency", "Your Grace", for which they receive a generous payment.

Act Three

Phenomena 1-3

Seeing Jourdain's new outfit, Nicole can't help but laugh. Madame Jourdain is outraged by the appearance of her husband, who "dressed up as a jester", and everyone is laughing at him anyway. Jourdain decides to show off his knowledge to his wife and Nicole, but does not surprise women in any way. Moreover, fencing with a man, the maid easily stabs him several times.

Apparitions 4-5

Dorant praises Jourdain's new costume and mentions that he spoke about him "in the royal bedchamber", which amuses the vanity of the tradesman.

Dorant asks "another two hundred pistoles" from Jourdain to round off the amount of his considerable debt. The indignant Madame Jourdain calls her husband "cash cow", and Dorant "rogue".

Phenomena 6

Dorant reports that he persuaded the Marquis to come today to the tradesman, giving her a diamond - a gift from Jourdain.
Nicole accidentally hears part of the men's conversation and finds out that the tradesman sends his wife to visit his sister in the evening so that nothing "constrains" them.

Apparitions 7-11

Madame Jourdain is sure that her husband is "hitting on someone". A woman wants to marry her daughter to Cleont, who is in love with her. Nicole is delighted with her decision as a mistress, as she likes Cleont's servant.

Madame Jourdain advises Cleont to ask Monsieur Jourdain for the hand of her daughter today.

Event 12

Cleont asks M. Jourdain for Lucile's hand in marriage. The tradesman is only interested in whether the future son-in-law is a nobleman. Cleont, not wanting to deceive, admits that he is not. Jourdain refuses, because he wants his daughter to be a marchioness.

Apparitions 13-14

Coviel calms the upset Cleont - the servant figured out how to "circle our dupe around the finger."

Apparitions 15-18

Dorimena did not want to meet Dorant at her place or at his house, so she agreed to dine at Jourdain's. The count gave all the gifts of the tradesman to the Marquise on his own behalf.

Apparitions 19-20

Meeting the marquise, Jourdain bows absurdly, which amuses the woman very much. Dorant warns the tradesman not to mention the diamond donated by Dorimen, as it is impolite in secular society.

act four

Phenomenon 1

Dorimena is surprised that a "luxurious feast" was arranged for her. Jourdain, drawing attention to the diamond on the marquise's hand, calls it "a trifle", believing that the woman knows that this is a gift from him.

Phenomena 2-4

Madame Jourdain suddenly appears. The woman is indignant that, having sent his wife out, her husband arranges a "feast" for another lady. Dorant tries to justify himself by explaining that he arranged the dinner. Madame Jourdain does not believe it. The frustrated Marchioness leaves, followed by Dorant.

Apparitions 5-8

In disguise, Coviel poses as an old friend of Father Jourdain. Koviel says that the tradesman's father was not a merchant, but a nobleman. However, the main purpose of his visit is the message that the son of the Turkish Sultan has long been in love with Jourdain's daughter and wants to marry her. Soon, Cleont, disguised as a Turk, joins them and, through an interpreter, Covel, announces his intentions.

Coviel asks Dorant to play along with them.

Apparitions 9-13

Turkish ceremony. Mufti with retinue, dervishes and Turks sing and dance, conducting the initiation of Jourdain, dressed in Turkish clothes, into a Turk. Mufti puts the Koran on the back of the tradesman, calls Mohammed.

Act Five

Phenomenon 1

Jourdain explains to his wife that now he has become a mother. The woman decides that her husband has gone mad.

Phenomena 2-3

Dorant persuades Dorimene to stay to support Cleont's idea with a masquerade and watch a ballet arranged for her.

Apparitions 4-7

Lucille at first refuses to marry, but, recognizing Cleont in the Turk, she agrees.

Madame Jourdain was also against the marriage, but when Koviel quietly explained to her that what was happening was only a masquerade, she ordered to send for a notary.

Dorant announces that he and the Marchioness have also decided to get married. Jourdain thinks that the count said this as a distraction. The joyful tradesman gives Nicole to the "interpreter" Covel, and his "wife - to anyone." Koviel is surprised that “you won’t find another such madcap in the whole world!” .

"Comedy ends with ballet".

Conclusion

Moliere's comedy "The Philistine in the Nobility" is one of the most famous dramatic works. The play was staged by more than twenty leading theaters, it was filmed four times. Attracting by the brightness of the described characters and subtle humor, the brilliant work remains interesting for modern readers.

Summary of "The tradesman in the nobility" |