The Art of Being Bored

Book excerpt: The Art of Being Bored is a satirical comedy in three acts in which French dramatist Édouard Pailleron mocked modern upper-class society. It is full of transparent allusions to famous people, wit, and comic situations. The play was the most popular and most often acted comedy of manners in the era of 19th-century French drama. This comedy is replete with intriguing characters. Its gripping plot and dialogues keep its readers and viewers interested till the end. Pailleron wrote a large number of comedies, sentimental and satirical. He was not concerned with issues or "ideas." He was determined to depict the flaws and fakeness of society, stating his observations into a pleasant and unified whole.