Let me set the scene: Paris, the 1660s. Meet Harpagon, a man so cheap he'd charge his own children rent. He's got a fortune stashed away, but you'd never know it from the way he lives. His son, Cléante, is in love with a sweet girl named Mariane. His daughter, Élise, is in love with her father's steward, Valère. Both kids need money to marry, but asking their dad for help is like asking a cactus for a hug.

The Story

Harpagon has his own romantic plans—he wants to marry Mariane himself, because she's young, beautiful, and (he thinks) comes without a dowry. So now father and son are rivals for the same woman. Meanwhile, Harpagon's cash box goes missing. He erupts into a frenzy that makes a toddler's tantrum look calm. He accuses everyone, threatens the servants, and promises rewards he'll never pay. The rest of the play is a wild scramble as the young lovers scheme, servants plot, and Harpagon spirals into comic misery over his lost gold. Without spoiling the ending, let's just say everything gets tangled before it gets sorted.

Why You Should Read It

What blows my mind is how fresh this 350-year-old play feels. Harpagon isn't just a cartoon villain—he's a real type. We've all met someone who values things over people, who lets greed twist their heart. Molière doesn't just make us laugh at him; he shows how this obsession poisons everything: family, trust, even basic happiness. The servants, especially the clever La Flèche, are the real heroes here, using their wits to survive in a house ruled by madness. The dialogue snaps with energy, and the situations are so exaggerated they become weirdly believable.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for anyone who loves sharp comedy about human flaws. If you enjoy shows or books where characters get themselves into ridiculous messes (think classic sitcom energy), you'll love this. It's short, fast-paced, and surprisingly accessible for a centuries-old play. Don't go in expecting deep philosophy—go in ready to watch a master comedian expose how silly we can be when money becomes our god. Keep an eye on that cash box.