How we cite our quotes: Line
Quote #7
Their assholes are learning astronomy on their own. (194)
And things just keep getting more ridiculous at the Thinkery. When Strepsiades sees a group of students and wants to know why they're staring at the ground with their rumps in the air, this is what the pupil replies. Because naturally, one's butt is capable of learning any subject. Maybe Shmoop should get in on the whole "learning guides for tushes" business?
Quote #8
Honored Clouds, I do revere you; / let me answer with a fart / all their thunder: that's how scared they've made me, that's how terrified! / Now, if it's allowed, or even if it's not, I need to crap! (293-295)
The play is great at juxtaposing (often faux) solemn/reverent language with utter nonsense and vulgarity, as is the case here. Strepsiades is trying to pay homage to these new "gods" he's met via Socrates (i.e., the Clouds), but apparently all the noise they made on their big entrance made him feel some serious longing for the potty. Unfortunately, he's unable to keep his thoughts to himself, much to Socrates's dismay.
Quote #9
What a moron! You're a throwback, truly a Neanderthal. (398)
Eventually, Socrates decides that Strepsiades really is beyond education/help and that he's a total "moron." Hmm, that doesn't sound like very good teacher behavior to us, but then, Aristophanes isn't really trying to make him look good.