Le Philosophe sans le savoir

Le Philosophe sans le savoir (The Philosopher Without Knowledge) is a domestic comedy written by Michel-Jean Sedaine and first performed in 1765. The play is a prime example of the "bourgeois drama" that emerged in the 18th century, championed by thinkers like Denis Diderot. This genre aimed to depict the lives and values of the middle class, blending tragic and comic elements to create a sentimental and idealized portrayal of merchant family life.

Sedaine's play, while initially censored for its treatment of dueling, championed middle-class virtues and criticized aristocratic prejudice. It illustrated the value of commerce and a rational sense of honor. Though it enjoyed some popularity in the 19th century, its significance today is primarily historical, representing a shift in theatrical focus towards everyday life and morality.12