How we cite our quotes: All quotations are from The Graduate.
Quote #4
MRS. ROBINSON: Benjamin—do you find me undesirable?
BENJAMIN: Oh no, Mrs. Robinson. I think—I think you're the most attractive of all my parents' friends.
This is a pretty hilarious juxtaposition of Ben's awkwardness and need to please vs. the fact that he's about to sleep with his parents' close friend. Mrs. Robinson is playing on the fact that Ben's a nice guy and doesn't want to appear insulting.
Quote #5
ROOM CLERK: Are you here for an affair, sir?
[Terror and disbelief in Ben's eyes. He looks helplessly at the clerk.]
BENJAMIN: What?
ROOM CLERK: The Singleman party, sir?
BENJAMIN: Oh—yes. The Singleman party.
In a classic comic misunderstanding, the room clerk accidentally delves right into the source of Ben's anxieties as he waits for Mrs. Robinson to show up. He clearly feels jumpy and guilty about what he's about to do. The scene shows us that this clandestine stuff isn't exactly business as usual for Ben.
Quote #6
MRS. ROBINSON: On your first time—
BENJAMIN: Who said it was my first time.
MRS. ROBINSON: That you're afraid—
BENJAMIN: Wait a minute.
MRS. ROBINSON: —of being inadequate. I mean just because you happen to be inadequate in one way—
BENJAMIN: Inadequate! …Don't move.
Mrs. Robinson hits Ben in a psychological soft spot, challenging his manhood and fears about sexual inadequacy. In the novel, it's clear that Ben has a fair amount of sexual experience. Was there a reason why Nichols chose to portray him as anxious and inexperienced? Is it more comical?