My mother! Curse of poverty! Does she come to shame me, to to betray my birth
Andrew Lethe sees his mother, although his mother does not recognize him. Upon seeing his mother, Lethe reveals his past and depicts his disdain for the poor family he came from. Andrew Lethe has changed his name and his lifestyle to pursue a more affluent future. In doing so, Lethe is corrupted by the city and fails in his goals.
Woe worth th’ infected cause that makes me visit this man-devouring city!
This quote portrays one of Middleton's themes about the corruptible nature of the city. Many of Middleton's works revolve around class and discuss the sin associated with upper class and city individuals. The Father of the Country Wench is from a rural area but comes to the city to find his wayward daughter. Upon entering the city he immediately notes the corruption associated with the city and recounts his own past dealings with the city.
Why, you fool, are not gentle women sinners?
The Country Wench's father confronts the Country Wench, but does not recognize her. He expressed disdain for her occupation and shames her for being a courtesan. When confronted by her father, the Country Wench responds with this quote. In saying this, the Country Wench explains that corruption and upper class women are synonymous.
