Les Précieuses Ridicules follows the misguided sentiments and affectations of two young ladies from the French provinces. Madelon and her cousin, Cathos, have arrived in Paris from the country and Madelon’s father, Gorgibus, is keen to find them husbands as soon as possible. However, they have been brainwashed by absurd, romantic ideas about courtship and suitors, much to Gorgibus’ frustration. He is astounded when they reject the advances of two noblemen, La Grange and Du Croisy, and becomes enraged by their silly reasoning. However, Gorgibus’ embarrassment does not end there. Determined to teach the young ladies a lesson, La Grange and Du Croisy arrange for their valets to disguise themselves as ridiculous, wealthy courtiers who come to woo Madelon and Cathos. When the women are firmly under their spell, La Grange and Du Croisy reveal their deception and ridicule Madelon and Cathos for their pretentious affectation. Gorgibus’ is ashamed by the family’s disgrace and curses the ladies’ foolishness and naivety.
Les Précieuses Ridicules was the first of Molière's plays to mock the rules and customs of the strict Académie Française and satirize societal mannerisms and affectations which were then common in France.
Les Précieuses Ridicules guide sections
