Summary of Hugh Chesterman's The Pie and the Tart

Introduction

Hugh Chesterman’s play The Pie and the Tart is set in 15^th century France.  It portrays the then French life in a humorous way.

The condition of Jean and Pierre

John and Pierre are beggars.  As the play opens, they pity themselves for not having taken food for the past few days.  Pierre and Jean are roaming in the street because they do not have a house.  They both talk about their troubles.  Pierre says that he was arrested for begging and the judge did not consider him as a human being.  They both plan to get some food by begging.

Gaultier and Marion

They both decide to go to different streets and beg.  Jean goes to Gaultier’s bakery shop and knocks the door.  Gaultier scolds him and shuts the door.  On the other street, Jean knocks the back door of the bakery and Marion, Gaultier’s wife, scolds him.  Gaultier comes out of the house with Marion and says that he is going to dine with the Mayor.  He says that he would send a person to take the eel pie from the shop for dinning.  Gaultier says that the person would kiss her hand to get the pie.  Marion agrees for the plan.

Jean’s Plan

Jean hears their plan.  He asks Pierre to kiss Marion’s hand and get the pie.  Pierre goes to the bakery and says that Gaultier sends him and he tries to kiss her hand.  Marion believes him and gives him the pie.  Both Jean and Pierre enjoy eating the pie.  They both like the pie very much.  Pierre says that he say a tart in their house and asks Jean to get the tart as he got the pie.

Gaultier’s Return

In the meanwhile, Gaultier comes home angrily and says that the mayor is not home.  He asks Marion to give the eel pie.  Marion says that she has given it to a person.  Gaultier scolds her for being a stupid.  At this time, Jean comes to the door asking for the tart.  Gaultier beats and asks for the pie.  Jean says that Pierre got the pie.  He also brings Pierre to Gaultier.

Pierre’s Idea

Pierre comes there and says that he gave the pie to the mayor, who came home just then.  He says that the mayor asked for the tart.  Gaultier feels happy.  He is cheated by giving the tart to Pierre.