A new project using artificial intelligence (AI) is bringing the famous French playwright Molière back to life in a way. The project has created a new play called L’Astrologue ou les Faux Présages (The Astrologer or the False Omens), which will be performed in 2026 at the historic Palace of Versailles.
Molière, who lived in the 17th century, was one of France’s most famous playwrights. He died on stage in 1673 while performing one of his plays. This new project, called “Molière Ex Machina,” asked a simple question: What would Molière’s next play have been if he had lived longer?
To answer this, the team used AI to study all of Molière’s works. The AI created a first draft of the play. But experts in history, language, and theater carefully reviewed it to make sure it stayed true to Molière’s style and the time period.
The story of the new play focuses on a man named Geronte, who is tricked by a fake astrologer. The astrologer wants to marry Geronte’s daughter to a dishonest man, even though she loves someone else. The story shows themes Molière often used, such as trickery, foolishness, and human weakness.
Hugo Caselles-Dupré, an AI researcher, said the project aimed to recreate a bit of Molière’s creative process using modern technology. Mickael Bouffard, the director, added that astrology was often a small part of Molière’s plays, so it fit well as the main theme of this new comedy.
While the AI helped write the play, human experts made sure the story was historically accurate and made sense. They also discovered new things about Molière’s style that they had not noticed before.
By performing the play at Versailles, the project connects the past with the present. It also shows how AI can help explore history and culture in new and creative ways.
