Literature Network » Jean Baptiste Poquelin Moliere » The Middle Class Gentleman » Scene V

Scene V

(Lucile, Monsieur Jourdain, Dorante, Dorimène, etc.)

MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
Come, my daughter; come here and give your hand to the gentleman who does you the honor of asking for you in marriage.

LUCILE
What! Father, look at you! Are you playing in a comedy?

MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
No, no, this is not a comedy, it's a very serious matter, and as full of honor for you as possible. There is the husband I give you.

LUCILE
To me, father?

MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
Yes, to you. Come, put your hand in his, and give thanks to Heaven for your happiness.

LUCILE
I have absolutely no wish to marry.

MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
I wish it, I, who am your father.

LUCILLE
I'll do nothing of the sort.

MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
Ah! What a nuisance! Come, I tell you. Give your hand.

LUCILE
No, my father, I told you, there is no power on earth that can make me take any husband other than Cléonte. And I will go to extreme measures rather than . . . (Recognizes Cléonte) It is true that you are my father; I owe you complete obedience; and it is for you to dispose of me according to your wishes.

MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
Ah! I am delighted to see you return so promptly to your duty, and it pleases me to have an obedient daughter.

Literature Network » Jean Baptiste Poquelin Moliere » The Middle Class Gentleman » Scene V