Molière

This BBC podcast episode of "In Our Time" features Melvyn Bragg leading a discussion with Noel Peacock, Joe Harris, and Jan Clarke about the life and works of the French playwright Molière. The panel explores Molière's early life, his start as an actor, the challenges of running a theatre troupe, and his relationship with Louis XIV. They delve into the controversies surrounding his plays, such as "Tartuffe" and "Don Juan," and analyze his satirical style, the importance of the unities in his comedies, and his blending of comedy with ballet. The discussion also covers the role of women in theatre at the time, Molière's adaptability, and the enduring relevance and influence of his plays today.