Tartuffe | Short Essay Assignments

Short Essay Questions

The 60 short essay questions listed in this section require a one to two sentence answer. They ask students to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the text. Students must describe what they've read, rather than just recall it.

Short Essay Question - Act 1

1. What reasons does Madame Pernelle give Elmire for leaving the house at the beginning of Act 1?

2. Describe how Madame Pernelle takes defense of Tartuffe at the beginning of Act 1.

3. In what way does Dorine say Tartuffe has changed since he came to their house?

4. Why does Dorine claim the family's neighbor is slandering them?

5. Describe what Madame Pernelle says and does to her servant just before leaving in Act 1.

6. How does Dorine describe Orgon and...
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