Rhinoceros: Act III, Scene I Summary

Berenger is in his apartment with Dudard. The thought of so many people—and especially Jean—around him becoming rhinoceroses fills Berenger with fear that he will become one, too. Dudard is largely dismissive of Berenger's anxieties. They discuss what possibly could be causing this rhinoceros epidemic and Berenger notes that Jean was very proud and ambitious, while he, who so far has not been affected, is (perhaps excessively) unambitious. A group of rhinoceroses pass by the window, shocking Berenger. Dudard chastises him and tells him that he must get over his fear. Besides, he notes, the disease does not seem to be harmful; maybe, even, it is good. To calm his nerves, he pours himself a brandy and offers one to Dudard, but he declines. As Berenger has said that willpower is...