Let's be honest, sometimes the classics can feel like homework. But Molière's L'Avare (The Miser) is different. It's a fast-paced, funny play from 1668 that proves human nature—especially the silly, greedy parts—hasn't changed a bit.

The Story

The whole mess revolves around Harpagon, a wealthy old man who loves his money more than his own children. His son, Cléante, is in love with Mariane, a poor but kind young woman. His daughter, Élise, is in love with Valère, a nobleman working undercover as Harpagon's steward. Harpagon, of course, has his own terrible plans. He's arranged for Élise to marry a rich old man named Anselme, because it means he won't have to give a dowry. Even worse, he decides he wants to marry Mariane, setting up a truly awkward love triangle with his own son.

The plot kicks into high gear when Harpagon's beloved cash box, which he buried in the garden, gets stolen. His reaction is legendary—he screams, accuses everyone, and offers a reward that he clearly hopes no one will ever claim. The search for the thief, the tangled love stories, and Harpagon's sheer misery over his lost coins all collide in a series of hilarious reveals and confrontations.

Why You Should Read It

You should read it because Harpagon is one of the greatest comic characters ever written. He's not just a cartoon villain; he's a painfully real portrait of how greed warps a person. He suspects his servants of stealing candle stubs, he waters down the wine for his own party, and his love for his money is the only genuine passion he has. Molière doesn't just make you laugh at him; you also get this sharp, uncomfortable look at how his obsession destroys his relationships. The play is a masterclass in farce—doors slam, people hide, secrets spill out—but underneath the slapstick, it asks a real question: what do we sacrifice when we put wealth above everything else?

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for anyone who loves a smart comedy, whether you're a theater fan or just someone who enjoys a good story about dysfunctional families. It's for readers who want to try a classic but are worried about it being boring (trust me, it's not). If you've ever cringed at a relative's cheap habits or laughed at a sitcom misunderstanding, you'll find a kindred spirit in Molière. L'Avare is a timeless, bitingly funny reminder that sometimes the biggest joke is on the person who thinks they have it all figured out.