Quote 4
TOUCHSTONE
We that are true lovers run into strange
capers. But as all is mortal in nature, so is all nature
in love mortal in folly. (2.4.53-55)
Usually, Touchstone is the first person to bag on a character who is lovesick. Here, though, his insights about the nature of love seem pretty optimistic. He says that, even though love makes us do silly things, it's also the thing that makes us human. That's pretty right on, don't you think?
Quote 5
For a taste:
If a hart do lack a hind,
Let him seek out Rosalind.
If the cat will after kind,
So be sure will Rosalind.
Winter garments must be lined,
So must slender Rosalind.
They that reap must sheaf and bind;
Then to cart with Rosalind.
Sweetest nut hath sourest rind,
Such a nut is Rosalind.
He that sweetest rose will find
Must find love's prick and Rosalind.
This is the very false gallop of verses. Why do you
infect yourself with them? (3.2.100-114)
When Touchstone finds out that Orlando has been littering the forest with bad poetry about Rosalind, he pokes fun at Orlando's rhyming, sing-songy verse by making up a poem of his own. Touchstone also manages to get in a few jabs about Rosalind while he's at it.
Quote 6
TOUCHSTONE
Ay, now am I in Arden; the more fool I.
When I was at home I was in a better place, but
travelers must be content. (2.4.15-18)
Hmm. Looks like Touchstone has already decided the court is superior to the countryside.