Tartuffe

by

Molière

Tartuffe: Act 4, Scene 8 Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
Elmire asks what Tartuffe meant, and Orgon explains to her that he has indeed signed over all his lands and property to Tartuffe. He then mentions something else: a certain locked chest up in Tartuffe’s room. Upset and worried, he runs off to check on the mysterious box.
Orgon now sees the full extent of his blindness, but can’t do anything to save his family from his own terrible decisions. By signing over everything to Tartuffe he has given up the legal standing that gave him power. In a sense, he has given up his fatherhood, his central status and ability to protect and control his family.
Themes
Reason vs. Emotion Theme Icon
Family and Fathers Theme Icon