Publisher's Synopsis
This edition is a crisp, lively adaptation by Rolf McEwen of the classic play The Imaginary Invalid by Moliere. Argan imagines himself always to be sick. He believes he is afflicted with numerous diseases. He hires doctors to attend him constantly. His sensible brother Beralde tries to persuade him to abandon his imaginary obsession. Beralde argues that the condition of a person's health resides within his own mind, and thus he should forgo the services of doctors. Argan's behavior impacts the lives of his wife, his son, and two daughters. He arranges for his daughter Angelique to marry a physician whom she has never met so his medical expenses might become gratis. Angelique is in love already with Cleante, a man of her own choosing. Argan becomes insensed by his intelligent and stubborn servant, Toinette, for opposing his intention to force Angelique against her will. Argan's second wife, Beline, wishes Argan's two daughters to be committed as nuns so she won't have to share the inheritance. Beline looks forward to her husband's demise. The story is ridiculous, hilarious, and delightful. It is set in Paris in 1664.
