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Molière, whose real name was Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, was a French playwright, actor, and director who is widely regarded as one of the greatest masters of comedy in Western literature. Born on January 15, 1622, in Paris, France, Molière made significant contributions to French theater during the 17th century and his works continue to be performed and studied around the world.

Molière was born into a prosperous bourgeois family, and he initially pursued a career in law. However, his passion for the theater led him to abandon his legal studies and join a theater troupe in Paris. In 1643, he adopted the stage name "Molière" and began writing and performing in plays.

Molière's early works were influenced by the Italian commedia dell'arte, but he soon developed his own distinctive style of comedy, characterized by sharp wit, satire, and social commentary. His plays often targeted the hypocrisy, pretension, and absurdities of French society, particularly the aristocracy and the clergy.

One of Molière's most famous works is "Tartuffe" (1664), a biting satire of religious hypocrisy and false piety. The play caused a scandal upon its initial performance due to its criticism of the Catholic Church, and it was banned by the French authorities for several years.

Other notable works by Molière include "The Misanthrope" (1666), a comedy that explores the conflict between sincerity and social convention; "The School for Wives" (1662), a farce about marital fidelity and deception; and "The Imaginary Invalid" (1673), a comedy about hypochondria and medical quackery.

Molière was also an accomplished actor and director, and he played leading roles in many of his own plays. He was a master of physical comedy and his performances were renowned for their energy and comedic timing.

Despite his success as a playwright, Molière faced criticism and censorship throughout his career, particularly from religious and conservative authorities. However, he remained committed to his craft and continued to produce innovative and thought-provoking works until his death.

Molière passed away on February 17, 1673, shortly after collapsing on stage while performing in "The Imaginary Invalid." His legacy as a playwright and comedian lives on, and his works continue to be celebrated for their wit, insight, and enduring relevance to the human condition.