How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Page)
Quote #7
"But of this you may be assured, that whatever she said to you, she said of a good intent. You do not know her. She is a nosegay of all virtues, as truth, mercy, constancy, gentleness, courage, and the rest." (10.152)
Once again, the witch Queen has duped another victim into believing she is good. This time, it's Rilian and he's trying to convince the children and Puddleglum that they've got it all wrong about her. However, their experience at Harfang has taught them that despite her beauty, the lady is quite evil.
Quote #8
"Is it not the most comical and ridiculous thing in the world to think of them all going about their business and never dreaming that under their peaceful fields and floors, only a fathom down, there is a great army ready to break out upon them like a fountain! […] Why, they themselves, when once the first smart of their defeat is over, can hardly choose but laugh at the thought!" (11.158)
We might be able to excuse Rilian for his light treatment of regicide (king-slaying) and tyranny, since he is technically not in his right mind, but Jill can't help loathing him for wanting to destroy a whole civilization to please his lady. The question remains: If an enchanted Rilian did kill his father and take the throne, would he have been evil for doing so? Or is the witch the only one to blame? Over to you, Shmoopers.
Quote #9
"I am sure that Queen is a witch and an enemy. And those Earthmen would knock us on the head as soon as look at us. There's a stronger smell of danger and lies and magic and treason about this land than I've ever smelled before." (11.161)
Puddleglum is about the only one who has kept his good-and-evil sensors aligned throughout the journey, and right now, the alarms are going off. The crew has to decide what to do about watching Rilian in the silver chair. Puddleglum understands that they should hang around to see if they can gather any more information that will help them discern who is really good and bad in this scenario.