How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line)
Quote #1
IACHIMO
If she went before
others I have seen, as that diamond of yours outlusters
many I have beheld, I could not but
believe she excelled many. But I have not seen the
most precious diamond that is, nor you the lady. (1.4.77-81)
Iachimo's been around the block. He thinks all women are just like jewels—shiny objects that men think are amazing… until they meet a prettier one. It's clear that he has a lot to learn about Imogen—but is he partly right about Posthumus?
Quote #2
IACHIMO, aside
All of her that is out of door most rich!
If she be furnish'd with a mind so rare,
She is alone th' Arabian bird, and I
Have lost the wager. (1.6.18-21)
We know Imogen must be a looker, because when cynical Iachimo actually sees her, he's impressed. We're talking very impressed. We learn that Imogen is pretty here, but we also see that deep down, Iachimo realizes that women can be smart and pretty—even if he won't admit it to his buddies.
Quote #3
IACHIMO
'Can my sides hold, to think that man, who knows
By history, report, or his own proof
What woman is, yea, what she cannot choose
But must be, will's free hours languish for
Assurèd bondage?' (1.6.80-84)
Iachimo tells Imogen that lots of women can't be trusted, so he's just testing her. Well, that's ironic, not to mention totally hypocritical, since he is the onecan't be trusted, and she doesn't even need testing. Why doesn't Posthumus realize how good his wife is? Why test her like this?