The Middle Class Gentleman

📖 The Scoop

In this adaptation by Rolf McEwen of the famous comedy by Moliere, a gentleman of Paris by the name of Jourdain attempts to establish himself as an impressive member of the upper classes. He hires people to instruct him in those arts and habits possessed by wealthy and sophisticated members of society. He employs a Music Master to teach him music, a Dancing Master to teach dance, a Fencing Master to instruct him in swordsmanship, and a Master of Philosophy to tutor him in the academic refinements of higher thought. He obtains the finest wardrobe from his Master Tailor and the Tailor's Apprentice. He is often dressed in displays of poor taste.Madame Jourdain is a wise and witty wife who tries to enlighten her husband regarding his obsessions. Jourdain's elegant daughter Lucile has fallen in love with the passionate and temperamental Cleonte , who has a caddy servant Covielle that feeds a fire of anger and jealousy when the girls give the two fellows insufficient attention.Jourdain decides to spice his life up with the help of a deceitful friend Dorante whose title of Count holds Jourdain in awe. Dorante arranges for an attractive lady named Dorimene to dine with him at his home while his wife is ushered away on other business. A maid-servant Nicole assists Madame Jourdain in spying out improper activities about the house. The result is confusion and sheer madness.

Genre: Drama / European / General (fancy, right?)