As part of the semester with Hamilton in France, students enrolled in Professor Frédéric Maurin’s class, Theaters and Performance Spaces in Paris, have been fully immersed in the world of Molière. This week offered a deep dive into his work and legacy, blending historical context with contemporary perspectives on live performance.

The course brings together many interconnected themes, from the history of major Parisian theaters to the evolution of stagecraft, along with close readings of dramatic texts and comparisons of staging styles. Even for students new to theater studies, the material is presented in an accessible and engaging way. Professor Maurin encourages open conversation, critical thinking, and thoughtful reactions to different interpretations of classic works.

The highlight of the week was a class outing to the Comédie Française to see Le Malade Imaginaire. Experiencing Molière’s final play in the theater he founded gave the performance a special resonance. Watching the production surrounded by centuries of theatrical tradition added a sense of depth and authenticity that cannot be replicated in a classroom. It was a memorable reminder of how studying in Paris allows students to engage directly with the city’s artistic and cultural heritage.