A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court Foolishness and Folly Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Page)

Quote #1

[B]rains were not needed in a society like that, and indeed would have marred it, hindered it, spoiled its symmetry—perhaps rendered its existence impossible. (3.2)

Hank's talking about the knights' tendencies to duel total strangers for no reason at all. Can anything be gained from such a practice besides lots of choice eating for the local crows? Hank doesn't think so (even though he doesn't have anything against crows).

Quote #2

The king and the whole Round Table were in raptures over this preposterous opportunity for adventure. (11.2)

Hank suggests that traditionally heroic actions—like going out and killing ogres—are actually pretty stupid. Is it because the knights could be killed, or because the very idea of ogres is stupid? It would probably be less stupid if ogres actually caused a problem in Camelot, but they seem pretty nonexistent.

Quote #3

"What are you talking about? Don't you know what a map is? There, there, never mind, don't explain, I hate explanations." (11.5)

Hank's talking about Sandy here, and even though he loves her, he clearly has no patience for her foolishness. Her long-winded chattering actually helps Twain point at old Arthurian stories—she goes on and on without actually saying anything… just like Malory.