Born on January 15, 1622, Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, was best known by his stage name Moliere and became famed as a French playwright and actor prior to death on February 17, 1673.  He is considered by man as one of the masters of comedy in Western literature.  Among his best known works are The Misanthrope, The School for Wives and Tartuffe.

Though celebrated by the court and Parisians, his satires attracted criticism from moralist and the Catholic Church.  It is said to have been such a hard working playwright and actor that it took its toll.  Finishing his role as Argan in The Imaginary Invalid  

Tartfuffe, or The Imposter, or The Hypocrite was first performed in 1664.

You may read the play Tartuffe  at:

http://www.bartleby.com/26/4/11.html

Alternatively, you may see the play acted out here: