The Prince and the Pauper Identity Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

By and by Tom's reading wrought such a strong effect upon him that he began to act the prince, unconsciously. His speech and manners became curiously ceremonious and courtly, to the vast admiration and amusement of his intimates. But Tom's influence among these young people began to grow, now, day by day; and in time he came to be looked up to, by them, with a sort of wondering awe, as a superior being. (2.8)

What is the difference between acting like a prince, being treated like a prince, and actually being a prince? Is there a difference?

Quote #2

He is my sister's son; are not his voice, his face, his form, familiar to me from his cradle? Madness can do all the odd conflicting things thou seest in him, and more. Dost not recall how that the old Baron Marley, being mad, forgot the favor of his own countenance that he had known for sixty years, and held it was another's; nay, even claimed he was the son of Mary Magdalene, and that his head was made of Spanish glass; and sooth to say, he suffered none to touch it, lest by mischance some heedless hand might shiver it? (6.53)

Baron Marley could not even remember his own face; he thought that it was made out of glass. Still, everyone recognized him as the baron. Why? Is he still the same person if even he doesn't recognize himself? Does your appearance define who you are, even if you can't see how you look?

Quote #3

"Now were he impostor and called himself prince, look you that would be natural; that would be reasonable. But lived ever an impostor yet, who, being called prince by the king, prince by the court, prince by all, denied his dignity and pleaded against his exaltation? No! By the soul of St. Swithin, no! This is the true prince, gone mad!" (6.57)

It's funny that the people at the court think it's more likely that the prince has gone mad than that Tom could be an impostor. It looks like these people believe prince-ness is something innate, something that can't really be faked. Does the novel support this point of view?