Tuesday, October 23, 2007

"Wherein I am false I am honest: not true, to be true" (IV.3.42)

In certain situations in Cymbeline, lying seems justified. Innogen's lie to cover up the identity of who she believes is the dead Posthumous in IV.2 and Pisanio's continued deception to carry out his "right" duty are two specific examples. However, lying and deception are also villified, as is the case with the Queen's behavior throughout the play. We do know, however, that honesty is valued by several characters, including Posthumous and Cloten. Under what circumstances is it OK to lie in this play? Perhaps taking into consideration the chastity test to which Nate has referred, what constitutes honesty in this play? Is it rewarded, punished, or perhaps both?

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