Act 4, Scene 3 Summary

When Alceste confronts Celimene with the evidence of her letter, she continues to cover up her true motives and intentions. Even when she speaks the truth, she does so sarcastically, so that Alceste feels tortured and confused. Although he goes into the conversation determined to break off the relationship, he chooses to try to believe her lies and isn't yet able to leave her.

Act 4, Scene 3 Analysis

Although Alceste accuses others of hypocrisy, this scene illustrates that he is capable of lying to himself, just like other people. He pretends to himself to be confused about Celimene, when the truth is that he knows she's unfaithful.