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| Character | King | |
|---|---|---|
| Gender | Male | |
| Age Range(s) | Adult (36-50), Senior (>50) | |
| Type of monologue / Character is | Persuasive, Descriptive, Introduction to story | |
| Type | Dramatic | |
| Year | 1610 | |
| Period | 17th Century | |
| Genre | Tragedy, Drama, Comedy | |
| Description | The King urges Prince Pharamond to court his daughter | |
| Location | ACT I, Scene 1 | |
Summary
The story is set in the Kingdom of Sicily. The king's father, the king of Naples, had conquered the Kingdom of Sicily, banished its royal house, and imposed his rule. Philaster is the heir of that house and rightful heir of the Kingdom of Sicily. He now lives in the King's royal court and is widely liked by the populace. The King, not having any male heir, is worried about his succession. He plans to have his daughter Arethusa marry a Spanish prince, Pharamond, and make him his heir.
In this monologue, in the first scene of the play, the King is addressing Pharamond, urging him to woo his daughter despite his young age and apparent awkwardness, so that he can make him his heir.
In this monologue, in the first scene of the play, the King is addressing Pharamond, urging him to woo his daughter despite his young age and apparent awkwardness, so that he can make him his heir.
Written by Administrator
| Excerpt |
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| KING To give a stronger testimony of love Than sickly promises (which commonly In Princes find both birth and burial In one breath) we have drawn you worthy Sir, To make your fair indearments to [our] daughter, And worthy services known to our subjects, Now lov'd and wondered at. Next, our intent, To plant you deeply, our immediate Heir, Both to our Blood and Kingdoms. For this Lady, (The best part of your life, as you confirm me, And I believe) though her few years and sex Yet teach her nothing but her fears and blushes, Desires without desire, discourse and knowledge Only of what her self is to her self, Make her feel moderate health: and when she sleeps, In making no ill day, knows no ill dreams. Think not (dear Sir) these undivided parts, That must mould up a Virgin, are put on To shew her so, as borrowed ornaments, To speak her perfect love to you, or add An Artificial shadow to her nature: No Sir; I boldly dare proclaim her, yet No Woman. But woo her still, and think her modesty A sweeter mistress than the offer'd Language Of any Dame, were she a Queen whose eye Speaks common loves and comforts to her servants. Last, noble son, (for so I now must call you) What I have done thus publick, is not only To add a comfort in particular To you or me, but all; and to confirm The Nobles, and the Gentry of these Kingdoms, By oath to your succession, which shall be Within this month at most. |
