a False Woman
Falstaff exits, and the scene ends with a soliloquy by Ford. The speech contributes to the theme of jealousy already introduced in the play. Ford is, naturally, angry and upset to learn that his wife is indeed having an affair with Falstaff. However, he also observes that his feelings of jealousy are quite justified. Ford then declares, “See the hell of having a false woman!” (256-57). Ford is well aware that as a cuckold he loses not only the fidelity of his wife; but he also loses his money (indicated by the word coffers at line 257) and, more importantly, his honor and reputation. Ford would rather be called by a devil’s name, such as Lucifer or Amaimon, than to be called a cuckold or wittol. Being a cuckold is the ultimate disgrace as far as Ford is concerned.
In his soliloquy Ford also contrasts himself to the unjealous Master Page. Ford refers to Page as a “secure ass” (264) because he believes that Falstaff is also having an affair with Mistress Page.
Ford then continues his denunciation or criticism of women, and categorizes all women as being unfaithful. Ford observes that one cannot trust