Dost thou not suspect my place? Dost thou not suspect my years? O that he were here to write me down an ass! But masters, remember that I am an ass. Though it be not written down, yet forget not that I am an ass. No, thou villain, thou art full of piety, as shall be proved upon thee by good witness. I am a wise fellow, and which is more, an officer, and which is more, a householder, and which is more, as pretty a piece of flesh as any is in Messina, and one that knows the law, go to . . . and one that hath two gowns, and everything handsome about him. Bring him away. O that I had been writ down an ass!
In this excerpt from "Much Ado About Nothing," the speaker expresses frustration and self-awareness, questioning others about their perception of him. He acknowledges his foolishness while simultaneously asserting his status and importance in society, declaring his roles and possessions as indicators of his worth. This internal conflict highlights the theme of identity and self-perception in the play.
The character grapples with the duality of being seen as both foolish and competent. He wishes to be recognized for his intelligence and position rather than being labeled an "ass." This struggle reflects broader issues of societal expectations and personal identity, making it a compelling moment in the narrative.
