Prologue

The play begins with a prologue and an alternative prologue. The first prologue is titled "Eclogue," which refers to a short poem that is usually "pastoral," or reflecting idyllic, rural shepherd life. This eclogue involves a number of gods from classical mythology, including Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers, and Pan, the Greek god of shepherds and fertility. After an introduction praising Louis XIV and stating that the comedy-ballet was "devised for his relaxation," the prologue praises the king's war efforts with a rustic song and dance, until Pan enters and says that the best way to serve Louis is to entertain and charm him. The much shorter alternative prologue is a monologue, or speech by a single character, in which a shepherdess laments that foolish doctors cannot heal the sorrows of her heart.

Act 1

Act 1 opens with Argan adding up his many doctor's bills and ringing...