Tartuffe

Welcome to the National Arts Centre’s study guide for Tartuffe, Andy Jones’ adaptation of the classic Molière play, now set in 1939 Newfoundland. This guide provides a synopsis of the play, followed by background information on Molière and his work, notes on the Newfoundland adaptation, and historical information about Newfoundland's role in World War I, the Confederation Debate and the Newfoundland Rangers. It includes a brief description of the characters and themes in the play, and provides curriculum connections for English, History and the Arts. You will also find pre- and post-production discussion questions and classroom activities designed to connect the play to various subjects and reach as many learning styles as possible. Please feel free to use these activities as inspiration and adapt them for your classroom or grade level.

This teaching resource is intended to foster a greater understanding of both Molière's classic work and the National Arts Centre’s updated production of Andy Jones’ Tartuffe set in Newfoundland. It is also intended to help students prepare for the play, so that they can draw as much benefit and fun from it as possible.

We sincerely hope you find this guide to be useful. We welcome feedback and should you have any comments we invite you to contact Judi Pearl in the English Theatre Department, at judi.pearl@nac-cna.ca or 613-947-7000 ext. 537.