The Countess of Escarbagnas

The Countess of Escarbagnas, also called La Comtesse d'Escarbagnas, was acted before the Court at Saint-Germain-en-Laye, on December 2, 1671, and in the theatre of the Palais Royal on July 8, 1672. The opening note adds that it was never printed during Molière's lifetime, but for the first time only in 1682. The opening note says that the work gives a good picture of the provincial thoughts, manners, and habits of those days.

The cast list includes the Count, son to the Countess, the Viscount, in love with Julia, Mr. Thibaudier, councillor, in love with the Countess, and Mr. Harpin, receiver of taxes, also in love with the Countess. A speaker says that great newsmongers are the curse of provincial towns, and that they have no greater anxiety than to spread, everywhere abroad all the tittle-tattle they pick up. A speaker labelled Jean says that Mr. Thibaudier wishes good morning and, before he comes, sends some pears out of his garden, with a small note.