Racine: Phaedra

THE MISANTHROPE 177
ners of the age, and have a little indulgence for human
nature. Let us not examine it with such severity ; but
look with more forbearance upon its defects. The world
requires a more pliant virtue, and we may err through
too much zeal. A sound judgment avoids all extremes,
and bids us be wise with moderation. The unbending
severity of the virtues of olden times clashes too much
with the customs and manners of our age. It requires
too much perfection in mortals ; we should yield to the
times without obstinacy, and it is the greatest of follies
to wish to reform all mankind. I, like you, notice every
day a hundred things which would be better if ordered
otherwise. But whatever I may discover at each step,
men do not see me breaking forth into anger as you do;
I take them quietly as they are, I accustom myself to
bear with what they do, and I believe that, whether at
Court or in the city, my placidity is as philosophical as
your wrath.
Alceste. But this placidity, sir— you who reason so well
will nothing ruffle this same placidity? If, perchance, a
friend should betray you ; if, in order to get your prop-
erty, a trap were laid, or injurious reports spread about;
would you see all this without indignation?
Philinte. Yes, I look upon those defects so offensive to yout
mind as vices inherent in human nature, and my mind is
no more shocked at seeing a man dishonest, unjust, and
selfish, than at seeing vultures ravenous after carnagv,
monkeys mischievous, and wolves greedy of blood.
Alceste. What !
Shall I see myself deceived, slandered,
robbed, without being . . . 'Sdeath ! I will not speak
to you at all, when your reasoning is so full of folly.
Philinte. You would indeed do well to keep silence. Rail
a little less against your adversary, and bestow more care
on your lawsuit.
Alceste. I will bestow none upon it ; of that I am determined.
Philinte. But whom can you expect to plead for you?
Alceste. Whom? Reason, my just right, equity.
Philinte. Will you not see any of the judges?
Alceste. Why should I? Is my cause unjust or doubtful?
Philinte. I agree with you that it is not; but the league
against you is serious and . . .