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When engaging with a work of fiction, it becomes imperative to discern various writing styles that serve as clues to the author's intended messages. Moliere's "Tartuffe" and Voltaire's "Candide" are exemplary instances where the theme of appearance vs.
reality takes center stage. This essay delves into the nuanced exploration of this theme, analyzing how it manifests in both obvious and subtle ways, contingent upon the distinct approaches of each author.
In Moliere's "Tartuffe," the character of Tartuffe presents a striking example of the theme of appearance vs. reality. Initially heralded as a holy and zealous man, Tartuffe successfully infiltrates the household of Orgon by feigning piety. The play unfolds as Tartuffe maneuvers to marry Orgon's daughter Marianne, only to escalate his deception by attempting to seduce Elmire, Orgon's wife. A pivotal scene in the play exposes Tartuffe's facade when Elmire challenges him:
'Your declaration is most gallant, Sir, But don't you think it's out of character? You'd have done better to restrain your passion and think before you spoke in such a fashion.
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I know such words sound strangely coming from me, but I'm no angel, nor was meant to be' (Moliere Act III Sc IV).
This confrontation exposes Tartuffe's duplicitous nature, as he seeks to gain Elmire's affection while already betrothed to Marianne.
Act Four further unmasks Tartuffe, revealing his attempt to convince Elmire to engage in an affair. His language and logic betray any semblance of true piety, exemplifying the stark contrast between appearance and reality:
Elmire: But how can I consent with your offense to heaven, toward which you feel such reverence? Tartuffe: If heaven is all that holds you back, don't worry. I can remove that hindrance in a hurry.
Nothing of that sort need obstruct our path... Tartuffe: If you're still troubled, think of things this way: No one shall know our joys, save us alone, and there's no evil till the act is known; its scandal, Madam, which makes it an offence and it's no sin to sin in confidence (Moliere Act IV Sc VII).
Tartuffe's actions underscore the play's exploration of the deceptive nature of outward appearances and the stark reality hidden beneath.
In Voltaire's "Candide," the theme of appearance vs. reality permeates the narrative through various philosophical arguments and a series of events that challenge the characters' optimistic perspectives. Candide's philosophical stance, asserting that everything is the best of all possible worlds, serves as an inherently deceiving ideology. The novel unfolds as Candide and his companions encounter a devastating earthquake in Lisbon, prompting Pangloss to assert that it is for the best:
'For, all this is for the best; for, if there is a volcano at Lisbon, it cannot be anywhere else; for it is impossible that things should not be where they are; for all is well. ' A little, dark man, a familiar of the Inquisition, who sat beside him, politely took up the conversation, and said ' Apparently, you do not believe in original sin; for, if everything is for the best, there was neither fall nor punishment. ' ... 'Your Excellency will pardon me,' said Pangloss; 'free-will can exist with absolute necessity; for it was necessary that we should be free; for in short, limited will...
' (Voltaire 120).
The earthquake's aftermath, including Pangloss's impending hanging, serves as a stark contrast to the philosophical optimism initially portrayed. Candide's subsequent journey unveils instances where reality contradicts the optimistic appearances, such as Pangloss's survival on a slave ship when Candide presumed him dead.
The theme of appearance vs. reality gains depth as Candide mistakenly believes he has killed Cunegonde's brother, only to discover that the Baron was wounded and alive. Voltaire skillfully weaves these illusions and shattered expectations throughout "Candide," offering a nuanced exploration of the deceptive nature of perceived realities.
The exploration of appearance vs. reality in both "Tartuffe" and "Candide" extends beyond the characters' deceptions and illusions to encompass subjective realities. In "Tartuffe," characters like Dorine and Damis see through Tartuffe's false piety, attempting to unveil the deception. Conversely, Tartuffe's manipulation continues until the play's climax, highlighting the challenging nature of unmasking deception when appearances are carefully crafted.
In "Candide," the coexistence of reality and perceived reality becomes a central narrative theme. Candide's awareness of the actual reality may not always align with the circumstances he encounters. This divergence adds layers of complexity to the theme, emphasizing the subjective nature of individual perspectives.
In conclusion, the exploration of appearance vs. reality in Moliere's "Tartuffe" and Voltaire's "Candide" offers a nuanced understanding of how authors use this theme to captivate readers. The deceptive facades, illusory optimism, and subjective realities portrayed in these works contribute to the richness and complexity of the narratives. The characters' struggles with discerning truth from appearances mirror the challenges inherent in navigating the complexities of the real world.
As readers delve into these works, they are prompted to question the nature of truth, the authenticity of appearances, and the complexities of human perception. Moliere and Voltaire, through their masterful storytelling, invite readers to contemplate the intricate interplay between appearance and reality, urging us to look beyond the surface and uncover the deeper truths concealed within the folds of fiction.
Appearance vs. Reality in Moliere's "Tartuffe" and Voltaire's "Candide". (2016, Dec 01). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/fiction-vs-reality-a-comparison-of-themes-in-tartuffe-and-candide-essay
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