Question

In what respects is Cléante the antithesis of Orgon in Tartuffe?

A) Cléante is gullible, while Orgon is astute.
B) Cléante is religious, while Orgon is skeptical.
C) Cléante is level-headed and rational, while Orgon is blinded by religious fervor.
D) Cléante and Orgon have no significant differences.

Answer 1

Cléante is the rational voice in contrast to Orgon's blind religious fervor in Molière's Tartuffe; Cléante advocates for a balanced, reasonable approach to religion, whereas Orgon is heavily deceived by Tartuffe's false piety.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Molière's Tartuffe, Cléante is the antithesis of Orgon primarily in terms of their approaches to religion and rational thinking. The correct answer to how Cléante is the antithesis of Orgon is C) Cléante is level-headed and rational, while Orgon is blinded by religious fervor.

Cléante represents common sense and moderation in religious practices, advocating for a balanced view of religion that includes reason and morality. In contrast, Orgon is characterized by his extreme gullibility and obsession with the charlatan Tartuffe, whom he believes to be a pious man, to the point where it clouds his judgement and damages his family relationships.