The Middle Class Gentleman: Scene I
Scene I
(Monsieur Jourdain, Music Master, Dancing Master, Lackeys)
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
That's not all that bad, and those people there hop
around well.
MUSIC MASTER
When the dance is combined with the music, it will have
even better effect, and you will see something quite good in the little
ballet we have prepared for you.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
That's for later, when the person I ordered all this
for is to do me the honor of coming here to dine.
DANCING MASTER
Everything is ready.
MUSIC MASTER
However, sir, this is not enough. A person like you, who
lives magnificently, and who are inclined towards fine things, should have
a concert of music here every Wednesday or every Thursday.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
Is that what people of quality do?
MUSIC MASTER
Yes, Sir.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
Then I'll have them. Will it be fine?
MUSIC MASTER
Without doubt. You must have three voices-- a tenor, a
soprano, and a bass, who will be accompanied by a bass-viol, a theorbo,
and a clavecin for the chords, with two violins to play the ritournelles.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
You must also add a trumpet marine. The trumpet marine
is an instrument that pleases me and it's harmonious.
MUSIC MASTER
Leave it to us to manage things.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
At least, don't forget to send the musicians to sing
at table.
MUSIC MASTER
You will have everything you should have.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
But above all, let the ballet be fine.
MUSIC MASTER
You will be pleased with it, and, among other things,
with certain minuets you will find in it.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
Ah! Minuets are my dance, and I would like you to
see me dance them. Come, my Dancing Master.
DANCING MASTER
A hat, sir, if you please. La, la, la, la. La, la, la,
la. In cadence please. La, la, la, la. Your right leg. La, la, la, la.
Don't move your shoulders so. La, la, la, la. Your arms are wrong. La,
la, la, la. Raise your head. Turn the toe out. La, la, la, la. Straighten
your body up.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
How was that? (Breathlessly)
MUSIC MASTER
The best.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
By the way, teach me how to bow to salute a marchioness;
I shall need to know soon.
DANCING MASTER
How you must bow to salute a marchioness?
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
Yes, a marchioness named Dorimène.
DANCING MASTER
Give me your hand.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
No. You only have to do it, I'll remember it well.
DANCING MASTER
If you want to salute her with a great deal of respect,
you must first bow and step back, then bow three times as you walk towards
her, and at the last one bow down to her knees.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
(After the Dancing Master has illustrated)
Do it some. Good!
LACKEY
Sir, your Fencing Master is here.
MONSIEUR JOURDAIN
Tell him to come in here for my lesson. I want you
to see me perform.