The luxury debate on stage: Le Dissipateur by Du Rivet

Abstract

The French Jesuit theatre, which during the 18th century gradually opened to comedy and French-language performances, reflects social news. First performed in May 1746 at the Collège Louis-le-Grand, Le Dissipateur takes place in a luxury debate which runs from Mandeville to Mirabeau throughout the century. This comedy defends the middle ground and invites actors and spectators to settle their expenses on their social condition. It thus accomplishes its educational aim, in accordance with the spirit of Jesuit pedagogy, which consists in preparing pupils to live in society, to know its rules, so as never to be the victims of it.