The Imaginary Invalid

Béralde asks Argan how he liked the performance, pronouncing it “better than pumping things up your bottom, eh?” (69) He wants to talk to Argan, but Argan exclaims that he needs to tend to something. As he starts to rush off, Toinette reminds him that he needs his cane to walk. Alone, Toinette reminds Béralde to speak on Angélique’s behalf, and Béralde reassures her that he will do anything to help her. They scheme that it might help if they can get a doctor on their side, since Argan believes in doctors. When Argan returns, Béralde tells him that he wants to have a logical conversation. He points out the absurdity of a wealthy man’s sending his daughters to a convent, insinuating that Béline simply wants his daughters out of the way. This raises Argan’s hackles, so Béralde shifts his focus. He reminds Argan that Angélique is the one getting married; therefore, she ought to have a say in who she marries. But Argan insists, “In my family, I’ll only tolerate people I need” (71), adding that perhaps he will marry