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Orgon

The protagonist, a wealthy middle-aged head of household who has a demanding mother, a son and daughter of marriageable age, an attractive second wife, and a smart-mouthed servant. Once an able and wise man, Orgon has succumbed to religious zealotry, using morality to exercise power over his family. Orgon is gullible, stubborn, and not very bright.

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Tartuffe

The antagonist, a charlatan who preys on Orgon and his family. Tartuffe has faked holy poverty and religious fervor to attract Orgon’s admiration and succeeded so well that Tartuffe now lives in luxury in Orgon’s house. Tartuffe keeps up his public image with extreme acts of penance and ostentatious charity. In private, he gorges on food and wine and leers at the women in Orgon’s household.

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Dorine

The maid to Mariane, Orgon’s daughter. Dorine is the least important member of Orgon’s household in terms of social class, but by far the most truthful, clear-headed, and competent. She talks back to her employers and social betters, stating the truth without fear. Dorine is worldly, skeptical, and self-confident. She serves as a foil for her naive, credulous, and insecure master, Orgon, and for his shy, obedient daughter, Mariane.

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Elmire

Orgon’s second wife and the fond stepmother of Orgon’s son, Damis, and daughter, Mariane. Elmire is a witty and fashionable lady who wears fine clothing and entertains many friends. She is a reasonably religious, virtuous woman, devoted to her husband and stepchildren. But Elmire is also wise to the ways of society. She recognizes the need to avoid scandal and to protect her husband’s family.

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Cléante

Elmire’s brother and Orgon’s brother-in-law. Cléante is a frequent visitor at Orgon’s house, enjoying the society of Elmire’s other guests. Cléante is a philosopher and serious thinker, a voice of reason and moderation whose speeches border on the pompous. Cléante dispenses wise thoughts and argues commonsense positions. He approaches crises with caution and so is given to inaction.

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Madame Pernelle

Orgon’s mother, constant critic of Elmire, and dreaded grandmother of Mariane and Damis. Madame Pernelle follows her son Orgon’s lead and believes Tartuffe’s claims. Like Orgon, she uses piety as a weapon, with Orgon’s family coming under her direct fire.

Damis

Orgon’s son by his first wife; Elmire’s stepson. Damis is young, hotheaded, and quick-tempered. He shows off his bravado with threats of violence, especially against Tartuffe. Damis wants to marry Valère’s sister.

Mariane

Orgon’s daughter by his first wife; stepdaughter to Elmire. Mariane is innocent, shy, somewhat naive, and deeply in love with Valère, the man to whom Orgon has promised her in marriage. Mariane is also a dutiful daughter, accustomed to obeying Orgon.

Valère

A wealthy young man betrothed to Mariane, Orgon’s daughter. Like Mariane, Valère is an emotional adolescent who is deeply in love. He is quick to take offense and creates unnecessary obstacles between himself and Mariane. Valère is also the friend of Damis, Mariane’s brother.

Monsieur Loyal

A bailiff. He threatens people with polite good cheer, which makes him both amusing and terrifying.

Police Officer

A royal official who serves both as an arresting officer and as the King’s messenger.

Flipote

The maid to Madame Pernelle. Flipote does not have a speaking part in the play. Her role is to take abuse from Madame Pernelle.

Laurent

Servant to Tartuffe. An offstage character who helps Tartuffe work his cons and who lords it over Orgon’s domestic staff.

Daphne and Orante

Friends or neighbors. Offstage characters who figure in the gossip of Madame Pernelle and Dorine.

The King

Also known as the Prince, the sovereign, and the royal soul. The King is an offstage character who knows all, sees all, and resolves all problems.

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