Orgon monologue (Act 2) — Tartuffe

You're too kind, but do shut up--please do! Dorine. If I didn't like you . . . Orgon. I don't need liking. Dorine. But I will like you, sir, despite your griping. Orgon. Oh? Dorine. Your honor is dear and I'd be provoked To find you the butt of some smutty joke. Orgon. Can't you keep quiet? Dorine. In all good conscience, It's a shame to foster such an alliance. Orgon. Shut up, you viper, with your brazen traits . . . Dorine. What? You've been reborn, yet you give way to hate? Orgon. Yes, your twaddle has made me quite high-strung, And I now insist that you hold your tongue. Dorine. All right. But I'll think in silence nonetheless. Orgon. Think if you wish to, but strive for success At shutting your mouth . . . or beware. [Turning to his daughter] Let's see, I have weighed everything quite maturely. Dorine [aside]. I hate this silence. [She falls quiet every time Orgon turns toward her.] Orgon. Without being smug, I'll Say Tartuffe's face . . . Dorine. Yes, he has a fine muzzle! Orgon. Is so fine that even if you forgot His other traits . . . Dorine [aside]. And they're a sorry lot!