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| Character | King Henry VI | |
|---|---|---|
| Gender | Male | |
| Age Range(s) | Adult (36-50), Senior (>50) | |
| Type of monologue / Character is | Persuasive, Gives orders | |
| Type | Dramatic | |
| Period | Renaissance | |
| Genre | Historical, Drama | |
| Description | King Henry tells the English lords to stop fighting among themselves | |
| Location | ACT IV, Scene 1 | |
Summary
The setting is the Hundred Years' War between the English, led by general Talbot and king Henry VI, and the French led by Joan of Arc and king Charles. The English side is also plagued by fights between various noblemen, that between Somerset and Richard Plantagenet (later Duke of York) and that between Winchester and Gloucester.
This scene takes place in Paris. Vernon, a follower of Somerset, has an argument with Basset, one of York's men. They ask king Henry to allow them to have an armed fight.
In this monologue king Henry tells them to stop arguing about such trivial matters and make peace.
This scene takes place in Paris. Vernon, a follower of Somerset, has an argument with Basset, one of York's men. They ask king Henry to allow them to have an armed fight.
In this monologue king Henry tells them to stop arguing about such trivial matters and make peace.
Written by Administrator
| Excerpt |
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| KING HENRY VI Come hither, you that would be combatants: Henceforth I charge you, as you love our favour, Quite to forget this quarrel and the cause. And you, my lords, remember where we are, In France, amongst a fickle wavering nation: If they perceive dissension in our looks And that within ourselves we disagree, How will their grudging stomachs be provoked To wilful disobedience, and rebel! Beside, what infamy will there arise, When foreign princes shall be certified That for a toy, a thing of no regard, King Henry's peers and chief nobility Destroy'd themselves, and lost the realm of France! O, think upon the conquest of my father, My tender years, and let us not forego That for a trifle that was bought with blood Let me be umpire in this doubtful strife. I see no reason, if I wear this rose, [Putting on a red rose That any one should therefore be suspicious I more incline to Somerset than York: Both are my kinsmen, and I love them both: As well they may upbraid me with my crown, Because, forsooth, the king of Scots is crown'd. But your discretions better can persuade Than I am able to instruct or teach: And therefore, as we hither came in peace, So let us still continue peace and love. Cousin of York, we institute your grace To be our regent in these parts of France: And, good my Lord of Somerset, unite Your troops of horsemen with his bands of foot; And, like true subjects, sons of your progenitors, Go cheerfully together and digest. Your angry choler on your enemies. Ourself, my lord protector and the rest After some respite will return to Calais; From thence to England; where I hope ere long To be presented, by your victories, With Charles, Alencon and that traitorous rout. |
Comments
King Henry, soft spoken and ever forgiving, delivers this monologue in a calm, persuasive and diplomatic tone.
