How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Paragraph)
Quote #1
"Was there ever anything more cruel than the strict penny-pinching he forces us to live with, the unnatural parsimoniousness in which we are made to languish?" (1.2.17)
At the beginning of the play, Cléante curses his terrible fate of being stuck with such a greedy father. At the same time, though, you might say to Cléante, "Hey, if you want money, go out and earn it yourself." It's true that the play paints Harpagon as a villain, but would it really kill Cléante to find a source of income other than borrowing?
Quote #2
"What use will money be to us if it comes only when we are too old to enjoy it?" (1.2.17)
When Cléante complains about his father never giving him money, he implies that money is better spent on young people than on old people. That's why he doesn't care so much about the fact that one day, his father will die and he will inherit all the money. After all, money is only good if you can spend it while you're still young… as far as Cléante's concerned.
Quote #3
"It's difficult finding a safe hiding-place anywhere in this house. I don't trust strong-boxes." (1.4.1)
Harpagon is a greedy old dude. So greedy, in fact, that he doesn't even trust his money in a safe. After all, a robber would take one look at a safe and know that something valuable is in it. Good thinkin', H.