Tartuffe

Moliere's Tartuffe by Christopher Hampton is a most excellent translation and indeed one used recently (1983), when Anthony Sher performed the title role for the RSC at Stratford and the Barbican and on television.

Historically the play was twice suppressed by Louis XIV, but after altering the ending to flatter the King, it was allowed its opening in this format on 5th February 1669.  Subsequently it has become the most performed play in the French language.