Joseph Surface presents himself to society as a moral and virtuous gentleman while secretly being manipulative, deceitful, and self-serving.
He cultivates an image of piety, wisdom, and integrity, often speaking in a refined and moralizing manner to impress those around him.
His reputation contrasts sharply with his true nature—he is hypocritical, selfish, and willing to betray others for personal gain.
Joseph's deception is particularly evident in his interactions with Lady Teazle, whom he tries to seduce while maintaining an air of moral superiority. He also schemes against his brother, Charles Surface, attempting to tarnish his reputation while pretending to be the more respectable sibling.
However, over the course of the play, Joseph's hypocrisy is gradually exposed, and by the end, his carefully crafted image is shattered.
His character serves as a prime example of the play's theme of Concealment and Exposure, showing how appearances can be misleading and how truth eventually comes to light.
