The Threepenny Opera Hypocrisy Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line)

Quote #4

PEACHUM. Oh, so they're friends, are they? The sheriff and Public Enemy No. 1, ha, they must be the only friends in this city. (1.3.189-191)

More irony, folks. Peachum's rhetorical question indicates that he's not surprised that this odd couple are besties. The sheriff and London's most wanted are in cahoots, but because Peachum is so tuned into society's hypocrisy through his own dirty dealings, he finds the BFFs to be hilarious.

Quote #5

At lunch you pick the best wine on the list

Then meditate till half-past four.

At tea: what high ideals you are pursuing!

Then soon as night falls you'll be up and doing. (2.4.207-210)

The first three lines of the stanza refer to virtuous or esteemed activities. Picking the best wine on the list indicates good taste and the money to match. Meditating might point to a disciplined character. Pursuing high ideals would mean that you are thoughtful. But all of that is just a front once nighttime comes and the lust sets in.

Quote #6

BROWN. If only my men don't catch him! Let's hope to God he's riding out beyond Highgate Heath, thinking of his Jackie. (2.6.6-8)

Sheriff Brown should be thinking about how to catch a terrible criminal like Mac, not wishing for the no-good guy's escape. When he's in front of citizens like the Peachums, Brown acts as though he were doing his job, but here we see his true thoughts, which are far from lawful.