How we cite our quotes: (Book.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
I grew confused, stammered, and eventually said with a blush that it was Marion that gave it to me. (2.1.89)
For shame, Rousseau. Though at least he has the decency to blush.
Quote #2
I saw nothing but the horror of being found out, of being publicly proclaimed, to my face, as a thief, a liar, and a slanderer. (2.1.92)
Shmoopers, here's a glimpse into Rousseau's psyche. He hates nothing more than to be publicly humiliated.
Quote #3
She loathed duplicity and lying; she was just, equitable, humane, disinterested. (5.1.37)
Mama is the perfect human specimen, apparently. If she's so conscientious about telling the truth, why does she like Rousseau?
Quote #4
For Mme de Warens knew mankind and was highly skilled in the art of dealing with men, without lying and without indiscretion, without deception, and without offence. (5.1.40)
Rousseau may have found a role model in Mme de Warens. She gets what she wants without being deceitful.
Quote #5
So my little thefts were not very risky. (6.2.38)
One thing Rousseau knows how to do is to manage risk. He never steals or lies when he thinks he might get caught.
Quote #6
With her head full of prerogatives of rank and nobility, she could never imagine that an ambassador could be wrong and his secretary right. (7.1.43)
For once, Rousseau is actually telling the truth. He's learning the lesson the hard way that rank always determines truth.
Quote #7
I did not understand your letter of this morning; I told you so because it was the truth. (9.1.40)
Although both Rousseau and Mme d'Houdetot are being deceptive with their spouses, they try to remain truthful with each other.
Quote #8
The secret accusations of treachery and ingratitude were spread more cautiously, and were for that reason even more effective. (10.1.5)
Rousseau knows exactly how to play the game of wrecking people's reputations, which makes it even more excruciating when he's the one being played.
Quote #9
And you, too, Diderot! I exclaimed. Unworthy friend. (10.1.12)
This has shades of Caesar and Brutus: "Et tu, Brute!"