Question

Why does Joseph try to stop Sir Peter from discussing his desire to marry Maria?

• A. Joseph is secretly in love with Sir Peter himself.
• B. Joseph disapproves of Maria as a suitable match for Sir Peter.
• C. Joseph believes Sir Peter should focus on business rather than love.
• D. Joseph doesn’t want Lady Teazle to find out he is also courting Maria.

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Joseph doesn’t want Lady Teazle to find out he is also courting Maria.

• Joseph tries to stop Sir Peter from discussing his desire to marry Maria because Joseph himself is secretly courting Maria.

• If Sir Peter reveals his intentions in front of Lady Teazle, she might realize Joseph's duplicity—that he is pursuing both Maria and flirting with Lady Teazle.

• This would damage Joseph's carefully constructed image of moral superiority and charm. His actions are driven by his selfish desire to maintain control over both women while protecting his reputation.

• This moment exposes Joseph's manipulative and hypocritical nature, central to his characterization in The School for Scandal.