How did Molière begin his career in theatre?

Written and fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Molière founded his own theatre company in his early 20s. His company toured the French provinces for several years and eventually secured the patronage of King Louis XIV’s brother in 1658 at a performance given at the Louvre. With the advantage of royal patronage, Molière’s company began to grow in prestige.