Tartuffe Act 3, Scene 4 Summary

  • This is where things get a bit crazy.
  • Damis jumps out of the closet – remember, he's been hiding in there the whole time – and contradicts Elmire's promise.
  • He wants to tell everyone about what a liar and a sleaze Tartuffe is; it's the second best thing to punching him in the face.
  • Elmire tries to do some damage control and convince Damis to keep his mouth shut; she wants to honor her promise and avoid upsetting Orgon.
  • Damis can't imagine letting Tartuffe get off so easily. He, who has seen his marriage prospects nearly disappear, craves justice, and he's just had the perfect opportunity served up on a silver platter.
  • Elmire's attempts to calm him down fail; he wants only revenge, and he intends to get it.