How we cite our quotes:
Quote #4
DUKE
It well becomes that judge to nod at crimes,
That does commit greater himself and lives.
I may forgive a disobedient error,
That expect pardon for adultery
And in my old days am a youth in lust.
Many a beauty have I turned to poison
In the denial, covetous of all.
Age hot is like a monster to be seen:
My hairs are white, and yet my sins are green.(2.3.141-149)
The Duke apparently believes in divine judgment. Who knew? Based on his actions, we never would've guessed.
Quote #5
AMBITIOSO
Therein you show
Yourselves good men and upright officers.
Pray let him die as private as he may.
Do him that favour, for the gaping people
Will but trouble him at his prayers,
And make him curse, and swear, and so die black.
Will you be so far kind?(3.3.20-26)
Ambitioso's pretty hypocritical, right? He describes himself wanting to do a favor for Lussurioso, when in reality he's trying to get him killed. The other thing to notice here is that he expresses a common belief in the time period: Someone dying unrepentant will go to hell, while someone dying after prayers or other signs of repentance will find God's mercy and go to heaven.
Quote #6
VINDICE
Thou mayst lie chaste now! It were fine, methinks,
To have thee seen at revels, forgetful feasts,
And unclean brothels. Sure, 'twould fright the sinner
And make him a good coward, put a reveller
Out off his antic amble,
And cloy an epicure with empty dishes!(3.5.91-96)
Vindice is not only speaking to a skull here, he's talking about taking Gloriana's skull to a party. He says that the skull would warn people who are overindulging in various kinds of pleasure, the idea being that remembering death would help them remember God and repent in time for their souls to be saved. Remind us not to invite Vindice to our next party…