"Maistre Pierre Pathelin" stands as the preeminent masterpiece of late medieval French farce, a genre-defining work that has influenced European comedy for centuries. This anonymous 15th-century play follows the eponymous Maistre Pierre Pathelin, a cunning but destitute lawyer who uses his linguistic prowess and sharp wit to swindle a local draper out of expensive cloth. The narrative takes an ironic turn when Pathelin defends a shepherd in court, teaching his client a deceptive tactic that ultimately leads to the lawyer's own undoing. This classic of social satire offers a biting critique of the legal system and the hypocrisies of various social classes, all while delivering a fast-paced and hilariously cynical plot.
This edition was published in 1859 and printed on rag paper. It is a beautiful looking book with a deep red leather spine and wonderful marbling on cover and endpapers. There is some light foxing, mostly on the first section of the book. Edges are bumbed but it is very good condition.
Measures: 7.5” H x 5” W
