Act 2, Scene 3 Summary

Next, Basque adds that Clitandre is also downstairs. When Celimene instructs Basque to let him in as well, Alceste prepares to leave. Celimene insists, at first, that she wants him to stay, but then becomes angry and says that he should go, since he's not indispensable.

Act 2, Scene 3 Analysis

Alceste is not quite honest when he threatens to leave. He's bluffing, and when Celimene calls his bluff, she says the only honest thing she's said yet. Alceste is dispensable to her.