Summary

The Baron feels no pity for the women, although they beg for the return of Belinda's hair. Instead, Clarissa speaks seriously, arguing against the praise of vain women. Although they may be beautiful, they are rarely virtuous, and she argues that it is not suitable for men to admire them so much. Women's beauty will eventually fade, and if they do not marry they will end up alone.

The company is unimpressed with this speech. Instead, Thalestris calls the other women to attack, and the men and women engage in a physical fight. Though frequently compared to the great battles of the ancient world, it is in fact quite a silly conflict. Belinda pinches the Baron's nose and forces him to inhale a pinch of snuff, which makes him sneeze. She takes the advantage of his distraction to draw a dagger on him, and...