The main topic being discussed in the passage is middle-class versus genteel society. The interaction between Madame Jourdain and Monsieur Jourdain highlights his aspirations to elevate his social status despite being a merchant, while she critiques his attempts to emulate the nobility.
Mood, Tone, and Theme Quick Check
4 of 54 of 5 Items
Feature
The Would-Be Gentleman
by Olfson, Lewy
MADAME JOURDAIN: Monsieur Jourdain, my husband, you’re a fool! Dressing up as though you’re on your way to a fancy ball! Hiring language teachers, and dancing teachers, and fencing teachers, and music teachers!
The next thing I know, you’ll be paying somebody to teach you to breathe! And all because you think you can turn yourself into an aristocrat. Why don’t you face the fact that you’re a merchant, always have been a merchant, and always will be? You, a gentleman? Ha!
JOURDAIN: My dear wife, I don’t see what the fuss is about, just because I respect quality. There is nothing to compare with genteel society. There’s no true dignity except among the nobility. I would give my right arm to have been born a count or marquis. But since I wasn’t, I’m going to buy my way in!
The Would-Be Gentleman, by Moliere, adapted by Lewy Olfson © This play is reprinted from Plays, The Drama Magazine for Young People with the permission of the publisher Plays/Sterling Partners Inc. 897 Washington Street #600160, Newton, MA 02460
Question
Use the passage to answer the question.
What is the main topic being discussed this passage?
(1 point)
Responses
middle-class versus genteel society
middle-class versus genteel society
why the nobility is powerful
why the nobility is powerful
the importance of a quality education
the importance of a quality education
the social contributions of merchants
the social contributions of merchants
Skip to navigation
1 answer