Act 1, Scene 3 Summary

The scene again begins inside the house. Tevye and Perchik have just entered while the women are still amidst preparations.

Tevye's daughters run to greet him, and they wish each other a Good Sabbath before he introduces his oldest daughter, Tzeitel. Tzeitel and Perchik exchange a "Good Sabbath," and Tevye kisses each of his five daughters.

Motel enters just then, almost getting a kiss from Tevye in turn. Tevye begins to introduce him, but Golde enters, interrupting him. Tevye introduces her to Perchik, telling her that he is a teacher from Kiev and will be staying for the Sabbath. He asks Shprintze and Bielke if they would like to take lessons from him. The two younger girls only giggle in response.

Perchik tries to tell them that he is a good teacher, but Hodel expresses her doubt. Perchik praises her "quick...