‘But he began to curse and to swear, “I do not know this man of whom you speak”.
Now the denial was specific and forceful, even sworn by an oath. His fears had reached fever pitch. He must convince them at all costs. He had lost control. We can compare this lack of control with the actions of the High Priest in Mark 14:63. We do not see in this that he cursed Jesus as some do, he probably cursed himself and those who would not believe him.