Tartuffe: Act 3, Scene 7 Summary & Analysis

With Damis gone, Tartuffe calls Orgon “brother,” and tells him how deeply it hurts when someone tries to slander him “in my dear Brother’s eyes.” He tells Orgon that the wickedness of men makes him physically ill, and even “close to death.” At this, Orgon begins to weep and almost runs out the door to beat his son.

Tartuffe says that he would rather leave the house than create further discord, but Orgon begs him to stay. Tartuffe then warns Orgon that his family will continue to plot against him, making sure to mention that Elmire in particular may say slanderous things about him.

Continuing his tactic of reverse psychology, Tartuffe tells Orgon that from now on he will stay far away from Elmire to avoid any impropriety. Orgon replies that he wishes to spite his family by making Tartuffe and Elmire spend time together “day and night.” He goes on, saying that in order to upset his family even more, he will make Tartuffe his heir, signing away all of his lands and property that very day. This, he says, will prove that he cares more for his friend and future son-in-law than for any of his blood kin. The two exit together to draw up the deed.