Troilus and Cressida Politics (vs. Personal Life) Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line)

Quote #4

I do not care whether you do or no. She's a fool to stay behind her father; let her to the Greeks; and so I'll tell her the next time I see her: for my part, I'll meddle nor make no more i' the matter. (1.1.80-83)

Although Cressida's dad (Calchas) has betrayed the Trojans and gone over to the Greek side, Cressida has chosen loyalty to her country (and maybe to Troilus?) over loyalty to her father. Too bad that she doesn't actually have a say in the matter.

Quote #5

The great Achilles, [...] Grows dainty of his worth, and in his tent Lies mocking our designs: with him Patroclus Upon a lazy bed the livelong day. (1.3.142-147)

We're always hearing about how the formerly "great Achilles" neglects his political and military duties. Instead of fighting on the battlefield, he spends all his time in bed with his lover. Way to totally ignore your duties, man.

Quote #6

Paris, you speak Like one besotted on your own sweet delights. You have the honey still, but these the gall; (2.2.142-144)

Here, Priam reminds his son Paris that while he gets to enjoy Helen's "honey," the rest of the Trojan army has nothing but "gall" (bitterness) for their efforts in the war. In other words, Paris is letting the Trojans suffer in the interests of his own personal pleasure. Not cool. Too bad Paris stopped listening to his dad a long time ago.