The Would-Be

Question

Gentleman
by Olfson, Lewy
MADAME JOURDAIN: ...You, a gentleman? Ha!
JOURDAIN: My dear wife, don't see what the fuss is about, just because I respect quality. There is nothing to compare with genteel society. There's no true dignity except among the nobility. I would give my right arm to have been born a count or marquis.
But since I wasn't, I'm going to buy my way in!
The Would-Be Gentleman, by Moliere, adapted by Lewy Olfson © This play is reprinted from Plays, The Drama Magazine for Young People with the permission of the publisher Plays/Sterling Partners Inc. 897 Washington Street #600160, Newton, MA
02460
Use the excerpt from "The Would-Be Gentleman" to answer the question.
What inference can the reader make based on the diction in this passage?
(1 point)
It suggests Madame Jourdain's disdain for society while highlighting her husband's role in the community.
It reveals Madame Jourdain's views of her husband while reinforcing his commitment to aristocratic behavior.
It suggests Madame Jourdain's love for her husband while emphasizing his love of wealth and status.
It reveals Madame Jourdain's good sense of humor while underscoring her husband's general foolishness.

Answer 1

The best inference that can be made based on the diction in this passage is:

It reveals Madame Jourdain's views of her husband while reinforcing his commitment to aristocratic behavior.

This conclusion is drawn from Madame Jourdain's skeptical remark, "You, a gentleman? Ha!" which indicates her disbelief and perhaps disapproval of her husband's aspirations. Meanwhile, Jourdain's statements reflect his strong desire to attain noble status, emphasizing his commitment to the ideals of aristocracy.