The phrase "Armed to the teeth?" suggests a person being heavily equipped, but in the context of The Count of Monte Cristo, it highlights an ironic contrast. The character being discussed is portrayed as entirely unarmed, emphasizing a state of vulnerability rather than readiness for conflict.
This juxtaposition illustrates themes of deception and expectation in the novel. It reveals how appearances can be misleading, as the character's lack of weapons contrasts sharply with the idea of being "armed to the teeth," underlining the complexities of their situation and the insights into human nature present in Dumas' work.