THE MISANTHROPE
A monologue from the
play by Molière
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NOTE: This monologue is reprinted
from The Dramatic Works of Molière, Vol. II. Ed.
Charles Heron Wall. London: George Bell & Sons, 1898. |
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ACASTE: By Jove! I do not see, when looking at myself,
that I have any reason to be sad. I am rich and young; I come
of a family which can call itself noble with some appearance
of truth; and I think that, thanks to the rank I hold from my
ancestors, there are few positions for which I am not fit. As
for courage, which we ought to value above all things, it is
well known, without boasting on my part, that I am not wanting
in that, and people have seen me carry on a certain affair of
honour with vigour and determination enough. As for wit, I undoubtedly
possess some. I have also good natural taste, which enables me
to judge and reason upon everything without study; to play the
knowing critic upon the stage, when, to my delight, any new piece
comes out; to give my opinion as a judge, and to set the whole
house going at all the passages which deserve applause. I have
tact, perfect manners, good looks, particularly fine teeth, and
a very elegant figure. As to dress, few, I believe, would dispute
the palm with me. I am esteemed as much as one can be; greatly
beloved by the fair sex, and in favour with the king. Now, I
do think that with all these advantages, my dear marquis, I do
verily think that a man may well rest satisfied with himself
in whatever country he may be.
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