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| Character | Duke of York | |
|---|---|---|
| Gender | Male | |
| Age Range(s) | Adult (36-50), Senior (>50) | |
| Type of monologue / Character is | Descriptive, Lamenting | |
| Type | Dramatic | |
| Period | Renaissance | |
| Genre | Historical, Drama | |
| Description | York observes the defeat of his army | |
| Location | ACT I, Scene 4, line 30 | |
Summary
In the first scene of the play the Duke of York promises King Henry VI that he will let him rule England until his death. The Duke of York will be his successor. York's sons, Edward and Richard, persuade their father to seize the crown before Henry's death and York is persuaded to fight Henry's army.
In this scene York observes the defeat of his army against Henry's forces, led by Queen Margaret. His followers are running away and his lords are slain. He describes his sons courage in the battle and wonders if they are still alive. When Margaret arrives he accepts his death.
In this scene York observes the defeat of his army against Henry's forces, led by Queen Margaret. His followers are running away and his lords are slain. He describes his sons courage in the battle and wonders if they are still alive. When Margaret arrives he accepts his death.
Written by Administrator
| Excerpt |
|---|
| YORK The army of the queen hath got the field: My uncles both are slain in rescuing me; And all my followers to the eager foe Turn back and fly, like ships before the wind Or lambs pursued by hunger-starved wolves. My sons, God knows what hath bechanced them: But this I know, they have demean'd themselves Like men born to renown by life or death. Three times did Richard make a lane to me. And thrice cried 'Courage, father! fight it out!' And full as oft came Edward to my side, With purple falchion, painted to the hilt In blood of those that had encounter'd him: And when the hardiest warriors did retire, Richard cried 'Charge! and give no foot of ground!' And cried 'A crown, or else a glorious tomb! A sceptre, or an earthly sepulchre!' With this, we charged again: but, out, alas! We bodged again; as I have seen a swan With bootless labour swim against the tide And spend her strength with over-matching waves. [A short alarum within] Ah, hark! the fatal followers do pursue; And I am faint and cannot fly their fury: And were I strong, I would not shun their fury: The sands are number'd that make up my life; Here must I stay, and here my life must end. [Enter QUEEN MARGARET, CLIFFORD, NORTHUMBERLAND, PRINCE EDWARD, and Soldiers] Come, bloody Clifford, rough Northumberland, I dare your quenchless fury to more rage: I am your butt, and I abide your shot. |
Comments
For a more dramatic effect the actor performing this monologue could act as if he has been wounded in the battle.
