Class_Z; J Book L \ tt &pightN?_ . COPYRIGHT DKPOS1K of d SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED A Reader's Guide SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED A Reader's Guide BY FORREST S. £UNT, A.M. Instructor in English HORACE MANN SCHOOL, TEACHERS COLLEGE COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY NEW YORK HEARST'S INTERNATIONAL LIBRARY CO. 19 15 Copyright, 1915, by Hearst International Library Co. All rights reserved, including translation into foreign languages, including the Scandinavian 1 1/t a WQV '-5 1915 ©( I A 4] 4617 ",/ . INTRODUCTORY NOTE This Guide was prepared for the purpose of assisting the general reader to a better under- standing of the plays of William Shakespeare. The opportunity to visit libraries, consult refer- ence books and glossaries is not given to all who would like to know the plays of the great English dramatist. The Guide is intended to suggest to such readers the type of questions which any thoughtful reader should ask and which he can answer, even though he may not have an intimate knowledge of notes, historical references, or of play making. Mr. Arthur Brisbane's Introduction to the International Edition of Shakespeare will ma- terially aid one who is reading for pleasure in appreciating the plays and poems. F. S. L. SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED A Reader's Guide SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED THE TEMPEST ACT I SCENE I 1. Where is the scene of this drama placed? Scene i is on board a ship at sea; the rest of the action is on Prospero's Island. % Can you give a reason why Shakespeare be- gins this play with a storm? Because he wished to draw the enemies of Prospero to his island in an apparently natural manner. This storm was caused by Prospero. Scene ii, lines 194 to 208. Some commentators suggest that the storm was intended to recall the foul play by which Prospero was robbed of his duke- dom. In the author's day the elements were supposed to be in very close sym- pathy with human joys and sorrows. SCENE II 3. What do you learn about Ferdinand? Ferdinand is a son of the storm-wrecked 1 % SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED king; of "brave form"; is drawn to Pros- per© and Miranda by Ariel's music ; "he is gentle and not fearful" (line 467) ; and falls in love with Miranda immediately. 4. What expression of the Realistic, the Roman- tic, and the Supernatural does Shakespeare give in this act? The conversation of the sailors, and the love between father and child are ex- amples of Realism. Ariel's account of his part in the storm, and the bewitching of Ferdinand are examples of the Supernat- ural. The love of Ferdinand and Miran- da for each other is an expression of Romance. act n — SCENE I 5. What description of the island does Gonzalo "Here is everything advantageous to life." "How lush and lusty the grass looks ! how green !" 6. What does Ariel do for Gonzalo? He prevents Gonzalo from being killed while asleep by Antonio and Sebastian, by singing in his ear and waking him. Lines 305-310, Scene i. THE TEMPEST SCENE II 7. What is the dramatic purpose of this humor- ous scene? To contrast with the tragic; it tem- porarily relieves the mental and emotional strain of the spectators of the drama. The final result is to make the tragedy more effective by means of contrast. ACT III — SCENE I 8. What task does Prospero impose upon Fer- dinand? The task of removing and repiling several thousand logs. Line 10. 9. Compare the love scene of Miranda and Fer- dinand with that of Romeo and Juliet; in what are they alike; how do they differ? The love scenes of Miranda and Ferdi- nand and Romeo and Juliet are alike in that all four fall in love at first sight; that their fathers are enemies; that both girls are very young and childlike; that they profess their love at once. The scenes differ in that Miranda does not recognize her feeling for Ferdinand be- cause she has never heard of such a thing as love ; while Juliet recognizes her feeling for Romeo at once, — her mother has al- SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED ready discussed marriage with her. The love of Ferdinand and Miranda adds brightness and light to the play while that of Romeo and Juliet bursts forth with a passion which portends tragedy. 10. Give as good a description as you can of Caliban, Caliban has the body of a beast and the head of a deformed dwarf; he crawls upon all fours rather than walks upright. His passions are bestial, yet he sees the beauty in nature with a poet's mind. Act I, Scene i, lines 283-284; Act III, Scene ii, lines 26-40; Act III, Scene ii, lines 144- 152; Act V, Scene i, lines 264-270, 287- 291. 11. How does the action of the play progress in this act? Ferdinand's labors are rewarded by the gift of Miranda's hand, while Caliban, Stefano, and Trinculo are punished. 12. How does the author bring Prosper o to re- lease his prisoners? Prospero, through study and reflection, THE TEMPEST 5 resolves to release his prisoners if they show penitence for the past. IS. What do you think of Prosper of A matter of personal opinion. He is calm, dignified, and scholarly, typifying a gentleman. 14. How does he present Ferdinand to his father again? Alonzo looks into Prospero's cell, discov- ering Ferdinand playing chess with Miran- da; then Ferdinand tells his father of his engagement to Miranda. 15. What do you think of The Tempest? A personal question for each reader. 16. Why is it not a good play to be acted? Because of the difficulty of presenting the supernatural on the stage and its unreal- ity. 17. What do you learn from the epilogue? Various interpretations are given this speech. The actor who took the part of Prospero makes a speech in words which seem to apply to the play, but in reality plead for the friendly judgment of the audience. THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA ACT I SCENE I 1. What does Shakespeare tell about the charac- ters Proteus and Valentine, lines 63-68? Valentine is shown to be a man of action, generous, unemotional, true; Proteus is a man of reflection, selfish, emotional, false. % Is this scene humorous? Why? Yes. See lines 20, 23-40, 70-158. The play upon words in the scene between Val- entine and Proteus; the play upon words in the scene between Speed and Proteus; and Speed himself make the humor. 3. Compare the -first 50 lines of this scene with "The Merchant of Venice" Act I, Scene ii, lines 37-140. Note the similarity in the speeches of Lu- cetta and Portia; Julia and Nerissa. 4. What are your conclusions? That Shakespeare liked the scene in the earlier play and therefore developed the 6 GENTLEMEN OF VERONA 7 same situation when he wrote "The Mer- chant of Venice." That Shakespeare used whatever he liked or whatever "took" more than once. scene ni Why is this an important scene? Because it tells the audience that Proteus, the devotee of love, is to be separated from the woman he loves and, therefore, raises the questions, "How will he act?" "What will he do?" ACT II SCENE I What shows you that Valentine's love for Sil- via is genuine? Valentine's failure to see through Silvia's device (see lines 121-140) suggests that his love for her is genuine. 7. What is the reason for givmg this short scene? In order to show Proteus and Julia to- gether. After hearing his speech, lines 8-12, an audience would be further inter- ested in the questions raised at the end of Act I, Scene iii. SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED scene ni 8. What kind of humor is found m this scene? 9. Do you enjoy it? Natural, homely nonsense. If one sees the clown leading his dog by a string onto the stage, the quibbling wit of the speeches will probably cause laughter. 10. How does Thurio reveal his character, lines 10-42? By his speeches, especially lines 12, 9,0 and 30. In the first he shows jealousy; in the second, stupidity ; in the third, anger. 11. Would comedy of this hind interest a modern audience? It would depend upon the way it was played. The words read probably seem uninteresting but the action which goes with the words on the stage would cause laughter. This scene shows the absolute necessity of visualizing a play. GENTLEMEN OP VERONA act ni 12. Which character is the more interesting, Val- entine or Proteus? The answer will depend upon the reader; whether he is more interested in seeing treachery punished or honesty and love rewarded. Both are interesting. ACT IV SCENE I 13. How does Shakespeare make Valentine's will- ingness to become an outlaw less objection- able, lines 71-7;6? By a reference to the romantic robber Robin Hood, by the statement of the Third Outlaw that some of the band are gentlemen (lines 44-51), and by the agree- ment to ". . . do not outrages On silly women or poor passengers." (Lines 71-73.) 14. Summarize the ways by which the story is complicated. The introduction of Thurio as the chosen suitor of Silvia; the arrival at Milan of Proteus, and his immediate determination to supplant Valentine; Julia's trip to Milan in search of Proteus; Thurio's ap- 10 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED peal to Proteus for aid in his wooing; Proteus's failure to recognize Julia and his giving her a position as his page; Sil- via's escape from her father's court, her capture by the outlaws, and her rescue by Proteus ; these events make up the compli- cations. 15. What -feelings are aroused by lines 68-112? Satisfaction and sympathy. Satisfaction, because Silvia tells Proteus what she thinks of him and his actions ; sympathy, because Julia hears the man she loves de- clare his love for another, and because she also hears Silvia tell Proteus what he is. 16. Does Proteus deserve the reward he receives? No. The mere statement of repentance is not sufficient punishment. 17. Will Julia be happy with Proteus? Probably not. At least, one cannot be certain that Proteus will treat her well; but perhaps she would be happy with Pro- teus under any circumstances. GENTLEMEN OF VERONA 11 GENERAL 18. Do you like the way m which Shakespeare ends the play? Many do not ; to them the end seems to be forced and weak. 19. Are there any scenes or characters which seem unnatural? Some of Valentine's actions seem unnat- ural, see Act III, Scene i; Act V, Scene iv, lines 78-83; the Outlaws all seem un- natural; Eglamour does not live up to the reputation given him in Act IV, Scene iii, lines 11-13. Act III, Scene ii; Act IV, Scene i, seem unnatural. THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR ACT I SCENE I 1. Describe the characters in this scene, basing your descriptions upon what they say. Justice Shallow, his name describes him; Slender, his name describes his wit as clearly as his physique ; Evans is a simple, laughable, melancholy Welsh parson ; Page is shown as a natural gentleman ; FalstafF, an egotistical, hugely fat rogue, happy, unmoral, not sensitive to small vices such as lying, petty theft, and deceit ; Bardolph, Nym, and Pistol, three hard-drinking ras- cals, who hide behind brave words and hor- rible looks ; Anne Page, pretty, natural, girlish; Mistress Ford and Mistress Page, two pretty, healthy, honest, high-spirited women; Simple, described by his name. £. What is the spirit of this scene? Boisterous, noisy, bar-room fun. 12 THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR 13 3. What parts of the three scenes of this act ad- vance the main story of the play? Scene i, lines 1-209 ; Scene ii, lines 50-350 ; Scene iii does not advance the main story. 4. What parts are given merely to amuse? Scene i, lines 210-261 ; Scene ii, lines 1-38 ; all of Scene iii. act in — scene i 5. Do you enjoy the humor of Slender 9 s asides? The love-sick way in which Slender deliv- ers these asides makes them very funny. scene m 6. Are you interested in the plan of Mistress Page and Mistress Ford? If you see the fun that is coming you must be interested. •Y. How does Slender act in this scene? Not like a lover or a youth of ordinary in- telligence, but like a simpleton or a coun- try gawk. 14 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 8. What do you think of his wooing? His words and his actions make the audi- ence laugh at him. 9. Does this scene appeal to you as funny? Why? FalstafPs description of what happened to him is certainly funny and to this de- scription is added the fact that he tells the whole story to Ford. ACT IV SCENE I 10. How would this scene have to be played in order to show the fun m it? Very earnestly and seriously. The an- swers come quickly and glibly. SCENES IV AND VI 11. Which of the two plans for Anne's marriage do you want to succeed? Why? Fenton's plan, given in scene vi; because he is the only sensible suitor. ACT V SCENE V 1ft* How is the comedy finally concluded? With a delightful fairy scene in which FalstafF and Ford are both brought to THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR 15 realize their shortcomings and Anne and Fenton announce their marriage. 13. Are you more interested in the story of Fals- taff or in the story of Anne and Fenton? Why? Probably in the story of Falstaff; be- cause of the fun. MEASURE FOR MEASURE 1. How are you informed of the conditions in the city which need to he changed? By the Duke's telling Friar Thomas why- he put Lord Angelo in command of the city. ACT II SCENE II £. Should Angelo have been moved to clemency by Isabella's arguments? Yes. Isabella, the pure young woman, pleading for her brother would have gained clemency from a true man of noble character. Does this act suggest that the DuJce under- stood Angelo 9 s real character? We see that the Duke understood An- \ gelo's character from his conversation I with Isabella after listening to her re- MEASURE FOR MEASURE IT cital to her brother. See lines %%l-%@1, Scene i. 4. How does Shakespeare try to make Mariana's .. assent to the Duke's plan seem less repulsive?^ Lines 66-76. The duke disguised as a friar urges Mariana to go to Angelo, say- ing Angelo is her husband by a pre-con- tract therefore it is no sin to go to him. 5. What are your criticisms of the -final disposi- tion of the chief characters? Mariana's marriage to Angelo, whom she has finally gained by trickery, is not pleas- ing to the majority. It would seem that Angelo deserved some punishment. Lu- cio's untruthfulness does not seem to de- serve the sentence of death. That Claudio should be released is pleasing to the au- dience, but there is no special feeling for Barnardine. Isabella is one of Shake- speare's finest women characters. That her virtue and goodness should be re- warded by an offer of the Duke's hand gives general satisfaction. 18 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 6. How does this play show the differences be- tween the ethics of Shakespeare's time and modern times? That a play, dealing with such a theme and having such scenes and such devices, could be written with the idea of being produced in public shows the difference between the ethics of Shakespeare's time and modern times. THE COMEDY OF ERRORS ACT I SCENE I 1. Are you interested by Mgeorfs story? This story, "wjiich envelops the whole comic plot," receives the favorable com- ments of all the critics. They refer to it as "interesting," "pathetic," "strik- ing," etc. #. What are the important points in it? In Epidamnum his wife gives birth to twin sons, "the one so like the other as could not be distinguished." At the same inn and at the same time male twins were born to "a meaner woman" ; they too were alike in appearance. iEgeon bought these two boys to attend his sons. The family be- gan the journey home; were shipwrecked; JEgeon and his wife were separated, each having one son and one servant. JEgeon and the two boys reached Syracuse, where they lived for eighteen years without hear- ing word of the mother and the other two boys. The son secured his father's per- 19 20 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED mission to go in search of his mother and brother. After two years the father started to find his family; this search has lasted for five years. He has arrived at Ephesus hopeless of ever finding the lost ones. scene n 3. What does Antipholus of Syracuse think of the message he received from the mistaken Dromiof He thinks his servant is trying to fool him or cheat him. ACT II — SCENE I What kind of woman is Adriana? Adriana is a wealthy, good looking, fret- ful, peevish, jealous woman. How does Shakespeare make the mistakes seem natural to Antipholus of Syracuse and his Dromio, lines 184 ff? By making them think the strange events are caused by witches, fairies, goblins, etc. Note the many references through- out the play to fairies, sprites, and con- jurers. THE COMEDY OF ERRORS 21 ACT m SCENE I 6. Has Antipholus of Ephesus any excuse for making the announcement found in lines 107- 121? Her upbraidings at his lateness and her suspicions as to its cause — when he really was purchasing a present for her — seem to give an excuse. 7. Do you attach any importance to the pro- posed gift of the chain, lines 117-119? It suggests further trouble. 8. Contrast Luciana with her sister, Adriana is shrewish; Luciana is wom- anly. Adriana repels; Luciana attracts. Adriana is suspicious ; Luciana is trustful. Both are good-looking. 9. Why is the idea in line 161 repeated? In order to keep before the audience the idea that Antipholus believes the strange events are caused by witchcraft. If he believes this an atmosphere of plausibility is thrown about the play. SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 10. What is the first incident which shows Shake- speare is getting ready for the explanations which come in Act V? The arrest of Antipholus of Epliesus be- cause he is definitely located in prison and cannot make further complications. Note the confinement of the various char- acters before the final explanation. 11. Was Adriana justified in thinking her hus- band had gone mad? Yes. That she was justified is clearly evi- dent if the action has been visualized. 12. Has Adriana deserved the rebuke of the Ab- bess, lines 6Sff? Read her speech in lines 62-67. She cer- tainly did. 13. Do the events of this act follow in natural sequence? They do. Note the way in which the comic and pathetic elements of the play are joined. THE COMEDY OF ERRORS 14. What type of play is this? This is a farce; the only one Shakespeare wrote. 15. Do the characters develop as the play pro- gresses or do they remain as they were at the opening of the play? The characters do not develop, they are the same at the end as they were at the beginning. 16. Keeping the explanation of Antipholus of Syracuse in mind, does the play seem plausi- ble? Not very; where there is so much im- probability one has to yield himself to the fun of the play and not think much about the probability. 17. Did you enjoy the fun in this play? If you did not, reread it. Perhaps a closer acquaintance will enable you to en- joy it. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING ACT I SCENE I 1. Who are the interesting characters in this The interesting characters of this scene are Beatrice, Hero, Don Pedro, Claudio, and Benedick. £. In what attitudes toward each other are Bea- trice and Benedick shown in the opening scene and to what are those attitudes due? Beatrice and Benedick are shown as en- gaging in a "kind of merry war. . ." They never meet but "there's a skirmish of wit between them." Lines 65-67. They are both witty and both scoff at love. ACT II SCENE III 3. What is the purpose of the stratagem prac- ticed upon Beatrice and Benedick? Don Pedro has proposed that they marry Benedick to Beatrice — he calls it one of Hercules' labors. Scene i, line 379-386. 24 MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING 25 He proposes it as a joke to while away the week before Claudio's marriage to Hero. 4. What is the cause of Don John's perfidy to Claudiof There is no cause for Don John's perfidy to Claudio. Don John has an envious, sour nature which delights in causing trouble. Scene i, lines 5-11. ACT IV SCENE I 5. How would a modern audience respond to a man's mortifying an innocent woman as Claudio did Hero at the altar? The response from a modern audience to such a scene as this would be hostile. It probably would cause the play to be a failure. ACT V SCENE m 6. What do you think of the church scene and Claudio's poem and song? This shows how differently people felt in Shakespeare's time from what they do now. The poem and song are very crude and unnatural. SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED Comment upon Claudio 9 s willingness to marry a mashed woman, Claudio was willing to do anything to make amends for his conduct toward Hero — so he willingly agreed to marry Leonato's niece without seeing her until after he had sworn to marry. 8. Where is the climax in this play? The climax is where the characters are all assembled in the church for the wedding of Hero and Claudio, when Claudio ac- cuses Hero of being wanton. Act IV, Scene i. 9. Who are the principal characters? The principal characters of the play are Beatrice, Benedick, Claudio, Hero, Don Pedro, and Dogberry. 10. Comment on the art with which Shakespeare has raised Benedick and Beatrice to the height required for a mutual avowal of love after all that has passed between them. Shakespeare shows his skill in the hand- ling of Beatrice and Benedick. Beatrice shows her interest in Benedick in Act I, MUCH ABO ABOUT NOTHING M Scene i, by inquiring about him of the mes- senger. She piques his self-esteem by her wit; he angers her by his woman-hating airs. When she hears that he is in love* with her, she changes her attitude towards him. When he hears that she is in love with him, his attitude changes. Then Hero's misfortune brings them together, for they are the only two who believe in Hero's innocence. LOVE'S LABOUR'S LOST ACT I SCENE I 1. What are the terms of the oath referred to in this scene? To live and study at the castle for three years; not to see a woman during that term; to eat one meal a day six days in the week, and nothing on the other day; and to sleep only three hours each night. scene n % Compare the hinds of humorous effect fur- nished by Moth, Costard, and Armado. Armado, the gentleman, furnishes the oc- casion by the use of big words ; Costard furnishes fun through his stupidity ; Moth furnishes fun through his keen wit. ACT II — SCENE I 3. How far has the oath been kept, when this scene closes? They have all broken the oath, since each has seen and fallen in love with a woman. LOVE'S LABOUR'S LOST 29 Nothing is said about the other terms of the oath. act in — SCENE I 4. What two errands are entrusted to Costard? Has he wit enough to keep them straight? Costard is instructed by Armado to take a note to Jaquenetta and by Biron to take one to Rosaline. One knows at once that Costard will not be able to deliver the notes to the proper recipients. ACT IV SCENE I 5. What is there about the letter that is char- acteristic of Armado? The use of many bombastic words and quotations is characteristic of Armado. 6. What mood are the ladies in? The ladies are in a very jolly, happy mood. 7. What is the character of Holof ernes? The character of Holofernes is that of a priggish schoolmaster always trying to show his learning. 30 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 8. Who are the "Four woodcocks in a dish" and why are they called so? "Four woodcocks in a dish" refers to the King of Navarre, Dumain, Biron and Longaville; woodcocks means foolish fel- lows. Biron says that because each has been trying to write poetry to his love. 9. By what line of reasoning does Biron justify the breaking of their oath? Biron justifies the breaking of their oath by a verbose fantastical form of reason- ing, which has at times just enough logic to carry it. ACT V SCENE I 10. What is the nature of the humor of this scene? Verbosity and a play upon words is the nature of the humor of this scene. The play is thought by many critics to be a satire upon the many nobles who tried to shine as wits and punsters. 11. Describe the trick the ladies play on the lov- ers. Boyet tells the ladies that the four lovers LOVE'S LABOUR'S LOST 31 are coming disguised as Russians, so the ladies in turn disguise themselves, so that each man makes love to the wrong woman. 12. How do the "Four Worthies' 9 take the way their efforts are received? The "Four Worthies" do not fully realize that their efforts were laughed at. 13. What is "Love's Labor" in the play, and how is it "lost"? Love's Labor in the play is winning the four women — it is lost because the Prin- cess's father dies and she compels the King to wait a year, so likewise do all the oth- ers. A MIDSUMMER-NIGHT'S DREAM ACT I SCENE I 1. Explain the relations between the four lovers. Lysander and Hermia are in love with each other, but Hermia's father, Egeus, favors a second suitor, Demetrius, for his daughter. Demetrius has formerly been in love with Helena but has deserted her, although she still loves him. % Just why does each of the lovers go to the forest? Hermia goes to the forest to meet Ly- sander with whom she is going to his aunt's to be married. Helena knows of it, so tells Demetrius so he can pursue them, she follows that she may watch him — Lines 250-251 — Scene i. 3. Are these characters to be thought of as Athenians? If not, do they belong in this play? These characters are not to be thought of 32 A MIDSUMMER-NIGHT'S BREAM 33 as true Athenians. They belong to the play. Athens was taken because to the English that was the city of beauty and the nearest approach to an ideal city. 4. What sort of a person is Bottom? Bottom is a weaver, a thinker, an egotist and a tyrant. ACT II — SCENE I 5. Do these fairies make you think of Greece, or some other country? These fairies remind one more of Eng- land than Greece. The references to the cowslips and to the housewife churning are truly English. 6. What are some of the lines that are most fairy- like? The first fifteen lines of scene i are most fairy-like. !7. Are they represented with petty minds as well as tiny form,s? Titania is not represented with a petty mind although Oberon and Puck are. 8. What is the pozver of the magic plant, and how does Oberon mean to have it used? The magic plant, love-in-idleness, makes the one to whom it is applied love the first thing he or she sees upon awaking. 34 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED Oberon means to have it applied to Ti- tania, so that she will give up the page before he will remove the charm from her. 9. How seriously are we to take this scene? We are to take this scene as one of Puck's inimitable jokes. 10. In this and other scenes, how does Puck feel about his mistakes? Puck has no compunctions about any of his mistakes. act m — SCENE I 11. Do the characters in this scene know that they are -funny? The characters in this scene have no idea that they are funny, in fact Bottom wishes the audience to be informed that he is Bottom to put them out of fear. 12. Show how Titania's fairy daintiness affects the humor of the closing part of the scene. That the dainty fairy Titania could love the monster Bottom with the body of a man and the head of an ass adds much humor to this scene, especially when she calls Cobweb, Peaseblossom, and Mustard Seed to wait upon him. A MIDSUMMER-NIGHT'S DREAM 35 13. Explain the confusion of the lovers here; how is it to be straightened out? Oberon told Puck to put love-in-idleness on Demetrius, instead he put it on Ly- sander by mistake, then he puts it on Demetrius; both men see Helena on first awaking and scorn Hermia. Oberon tells Puck to put them to sleep when they go to fight a duel and put something on Ly- sander's eyes to break the charm. ACT IV SCENE I 14. How far is Bottom turned into an ass, and how far does he remain his natural self? Bottom is turned into an ass only in the shape of his head and what he wishes to eat. He still thinks as the Weaver Bot- tom did. 15. Is the hunting party a good addition to the play? The hunting party makes the awakening of Ly sander and Demetrius seem more natural and helps straighten out the con- fusion of the preceding scene. 1(5. When Bottom wakes, how much does he re- member? 36 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED Bottom remembers that he thought he was an ass and had ass's ears. ACT V SCENE I 17. Is Quince's prologue nonsense because of the way it was written, or of the way he re- cites it, or both? Quince's prologue is nonsense because of the way it is written and the way in which he recites it. 18. What absurdities of stage-management oc- cur in the mechanics 9 play? The wall making a speech, and later show- ing a chink by holding up two fingers ; the man with lantern, the dog and bush of thorn representing Moonshine; and Snug's announcement that he is not a real lion are a few of the absurdities. 19. Which of the actors makes the funniest blunders in language, and what trait of his character leads him to make them? Pyramus makes the funniest blunders in language; his bombastic and dictatorial manner causes him to do this. 20. Do the comments of the spectators have any effect on the actors? The comments of the spectators have no effect upon the actors so intent are they upon their play. A MIDSUMMER-NIGHT'S DREAM 37 &1. What popular beliefs are connected with Midsummer's Night? Some of the popular beliefs are that what- ever is wished on Midsummer's Night will come true ; that after night-fall the fairies are all-powerful; that they often steal new brides, or turn cowslips sprinkled on the doorstep into flames to burn those who have harmed them. £2. Whose dream is meant — Titania's, Bottom's, the lovers', or the reader's? See lines 440 to 460 in Act IV. It is gen- erally believed to refer to the audience. THE MERCHANT OF VENICE ACT I SCENE I 1. What does this scene show of the character, circumstances, and friends of Antonio? It shows that Antonio is a wealthy, inde- pendent, able, business man ; warm hearted and loyal to his friends. In this first scene he is thoughtful and depressed. His friends are able, happy young fellows, less well-to-do, and less thoughtful. % What lines of story-interest are suggested in the last few speeches? The last few speeches between Bassanio and Antonio show the great friendship existing between them; they also interest the audience in Bassanio's wooing and in the raising of the money which makes his wooing possible. SCENE II 3. What natural, girlish things does Portia say? Almost every speech has these character- istics. The first, third, sixth, seventh, eleventh, seem especially girlish. 38 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE 39 4. Has anything been mentioned in the play so far that is not perfectly credible? The only thing which can be questioned is the will of Portia's father. Would a sane man leave such a will? scene m 5. What lines, scattered through this scene, make you suspicious of Shylock's apparent gener- Line 30; lines 42-53; 59-61; 107-129. When seen on the stage several bits of "stage business" clearly suggest that Shylock does not mean what he says. act n — SCENE h 6. What action or "stage business" would take place in this scene? Launcelot acts as a clown. He addresses his thumbs as "Conscience" and "the fiend." In lines 42-46 he twists his father about at each reference to turn. When Gobbo refers to Launcelot's beard he is feeling of the boy's long hair. In line 113 he has placed one hand with the fin- gers widely separated on his side and quickly rubs his father's hand over it. The "business" in lines 129-151 is very 40 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED funny; Launcelot and his father are back to back, their arms locked and as each speaks he faces Bassanio. The whole scene is laughable largely because of the way in which it is played. SCENES III AND VI 7. What are the reasons for thinking that Shake- speare expects us to sympathize with Jessica in her elopement? Because of the thoughts given in Scene iii, lines 1-3 ; Scene iv, lines 34-40 ; Scene v, lines 1-6, 13-14, 47-52; Scene vi, lines 51-57. SCENE VII 8. Does the Prince of Morocco choose as you would have expected, from his character as shown in Scene i? In Scene i Morocco is shown as a brave, boastful, self-centered man. It is natural that he would disdain the leaden casket; pause long over the silver casket because of its inscription which appealed to his pride, and finally choose the golden cas- ket because his "glowing Oriental imagina- tion is captivated by the vision of Por- tia as the world's desire." The merchant of Venice 41 9. At the end of the second act, how far have the love-story and the bond-story developed, and what should be expected to happen next in each? The audience knows Bassanio and Portia are interested in each other; that Bas- sanio has secured the funds which will en- able him to appear as a suitor, and that he has started for her home. In the bond- story the audience knows Shylock hates Antonio, yet he has made an apparently generous bond with him; that the Chris- tians have aided Jessica to elope, thus furnishing fresh fuel to Shylock's hatred of them. The audience may expect to see Bas- sanio try his fortune with the caskets; in the bond-story the expectation is that Antonio will be forced to forfeit the ap- parently harmless bond. act in — SCENE I 3.0. Balance the best things Shylock says in this scene with the worst, and decide whether in the main we are expected to sympathize with him. 42 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED The best speech of Shylock is found in lines 132-135, which is really a wonder- fully pathetic speech. His worst speeches are those in which he gloats at the idea of Revenge. Because of the loss of his daughter and his money and because of what he says in lines 61-75 the audience is probably expected to have some sympathy for Shylock at this point. 11. Does the elopement of Jessica have any ef- fect on the main story? It makes Shylock more determined to be revenged upon Antonio. 12. Is this scene more or less interesting from the fact that we have seen Morocco and Arra- gon choose? It is more interesting because we have seen Morocco and Arragon choose — and fail. 13. What qualities does Portia show, in the va- rious parts of this scene? Love and coyness, lines 1-24; determina- tion, lines 40-42; pride, lines 53-60; fear, lines 60 ff. THE MERCHANT OF VENICE 43 14. What is Portia's plan, and in what spirit does she undertake it? The audience knows Portia is going to follow her husband disguised as a man, but she does not make clear just what she intends to do. Lines 62-78 show the spirit of fun with which she undertakes her plan. ACT IV SCENE I 15. Just how far has the trial got, when Portia enters? The trial has progressed to the point where it is clear that Shylock is actuated by hatred and is determined to have his bond. There seems to be no escape for Antonio. 16. Why does Shakespeare have Portia prolong Antonio's agony by letting Shylock go so far towards cutting the pound of flesh? For the dramatic effect upon the audi- ence. 17. Are we expected to take sides in this scene for or against Shylock? Without doubt the audience is expected to take sides against Shylock. U SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 18. Would you be willing to have the play end with Shylock's exit, line 412? This is the end of the story as far as Shylock is concerned. Many think the play should end here. The idea of a comedy, however, seems to require a lighter and more romantic ending. ACT V SCENE I 19. What is the tone of the -first 100 lines of this scene, as compared with Act IV? Light, fanciful, romantic; Act IV is tragic. 20. In what mood is the audience expected to go away? Light hearted and happy. AS YOU LIKE IT ACT I SCENE I 1. Why do people -find Orlando attractive? Because he is young, brave, sweet tem- pered, and ill treated. 2. Are you interested in Rosalind and Celia? What Charles says of them in Scene i, lines 112-118 interests an audience at once. The naturalness of their conver- sation in Scene ii adds to that interest. 3. What points in Rosalind's character are brought out in Scene iiif Her ready wit in the first 42 lines; her brave, calm, womanly dignity in the next 80 lines; and her youthful high spirits in the last 25 lines. What purpose does Scene i serve? It shows the banished Duke; develops his character; rouses interest in him and his fortunes. 45 46 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 5. Why is the last part of this act (beginning with Scene iv) so broken up? The audience must see the fugitives on their way to the Forest of Arden and must also see the life to which they are going. In order to do this the short scenes were necessary. 6. What are your first impressions of Jaquesf Perhaps you find this strange man inter- esting; perhaps he repels you. To many who know him well he is a delight. They find his egotism, his melancholy, his bored attitude toward everything, his satire, de- lightful. 7. Practically everybody knows one of the speeches in Scene vii. Find it. Lines 139-166. 8. Why does it make such an impression? Because of the poetic way in which the truthful observation is presented. act in 9. Pick out the thmgs you particularly like in Scene ii. The passages chosen will be determined by the clearness with which the action is AS YOU LIKE IT 47 visualized. The action here must be seen. 10. Do you think it reasonable that Orlando should not recognize Rosalind? Yes. He has been in her company but for a few moments; he has left her safe in her uncle's home; he has no reason to suspect her banishment. 11. What are the differences between Audrey, Phasbe, Silvius and Rosalind and Celia? Audrey, Phoebe, and Silvius are unlet- tered country people while Rosalind and Celia are from the Court, and have the refinement that Court-life would give. 12. How has Shakespeare made these differences clear? By the way in which they speak; the country folk are blunt and outspoken. Rosalind and Celia conceal their real thoughts and feelings, only giving the audience hints. The differences are more clearly marked when the characters are seen on the stage, by costume and ac- tions. IS. Does this first scene seem natural? 14. In what spirit should it be played? If the spirit of fun and make-believe which Rosalind and Orlando have adopted is ac- 48 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED cepted by the reader this scene seems natural. 15. Would Orlando's rescue of his brother have been more interesting had it been shown on the stage? No. Such a scene could not be staged. Snakes and lions could not play the parts ; imitations would "" be laughable. Ghastly, revolting scenes are generally given in the form of narrations. 16. Does Oliver guess Rosalind's sex when she swoons? Some critics think he does, others think he does not. See Act V, Scene ii, lines 21-22. 17. Why doesn't Rosalind reveal her identity to her father sooner? Because she has been too much interested in her own affairs. 18. Are you prepared for the conversion of Duke Frederick? No. 19. Does it seem more or less reasonable than the reformation of Oliver? It seems less reasonable. 20. Is the final decision of Jaques to remain in the forest appropriate to his character? AS YOU LIKE IT 49 21. Why? Yes. He has seen the world and cares no more for it; he delights in idle specula- tion and thought, yet his thought leads to nothing. He is an excellent example of "an utterly useless yet perfectly harm- less man." One critic says, "Jaques has too much prudence to leave his retire- ment." 22. In the epilogue why does Rosalind say, "If I were a woman . . . "f Because the part of Rosalind was played by a boy. All female parts were played by boys until the Restoration; women did not appear on the stage until 1660. GENERAL 23. What makes this one of the most popular of Shakespeare' *s plays? Because of the delightful characters ; the fresh, sprightly dialogue; the natural and pleasant story. 24. What scenes do you like best? 25. What speeches do you like best? 26. What speeches are worth memorizing? These questions must be answered by the reader himself. THE TAMING OF THE SHREW INDUCTION 1. Describe Christopher Sly. Christopher Sly is a drunken tinker, with whom the hostess of the inn is quarreling outside the inn because of the glasses he has broken. £. Outline the induction. The first scene gives a good idea of Sly, and shows the lord coming in from hunt- ing with his fine hounds and his huntsmen. He discovers Sly in his drunken sleep. He decides to have Sly taken to his, the lord's, home, put in his best chamber, and treated as a most honored guest would be. Just after Sly has been taken away a servant says some strolling players offer their service to his lordship. He orders them to play before Sly. He has his page dress as a lady and pretend to be Sly's wife. S. In what frame of mind would this induction put an audience? This induction would put an audience in a very happy frame of mind. 50 THE TAMING OF THE SHREW 51 4. What part of the story is told in Scene if This scene describes the two daughters of Baptista, Katharina and Bianca ; Bianca's three suitors and the father's refusal to accept any of them until Katharina has one. It tells of Lucentio's plan to woo Bianca unknown to her father. 5. Why has Petruchio come to Padua? Petruchio has come to Padua to see some- thing of the world and to find a rich wife. 6. How does he receive Hortensio*s suggestion about Katharina? He says he would like to meet Katharina at once, that if he married "wealthily, then it will be happily." ACT II — SCENE I 7. Describe the comedy elements in this scene. Petruchio asks for Katharina and de- scribes her as possessing all the qualities which he knows she lacks. He presents Hortensio as a tutor, and Gremio presents Lucentio as a tutor of Greek and Latin. Tranio the servant, introduces himself as Lucentio. These are some of the comic elements. 5& SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 8. What effect would the -first meeting of Petrw- chio and Kate produce on the stage? The first meeting of Petruchio and Kate would be very funny. This is the first time she has ever met anyone who was not afraid of her. 9. What does Baptista say concerning his daugh- ter Bianca 9 s suitors? 66 'Tis deeds must win the prize ; and he of both that can assure my daughter's greatest dower shall have my Bianca's love." Scene i, lines 344-346. act in — SCENE I 10. Describe the Latin lesson and the waiting music teacher. The real Lucentio is trying to tell Bianca who he is, while pretending to teach her Latin. Hortensio is tuning his instru- ment, impatiently waiting to give her a music lesson and try to further his suit. Bianca shows that she is something of a coquette. 11. How must Kate have felt when her fiance ar- rived for the wedding? Kate had protested against marrying Pe- THE TAMING OF THE SHREW 58 truchio, she was chagrined when he did not appear at the appointed hour. When he did appear in his fantastic dress she certainly would not have married him if she had not feared him. 12. How did Kate accept her first "taming"? Kate tries entreaty and then independence in vain. ACT IV 13. How is the love-story progressing? Bianca's love-story is progressing rap- idly. Hortensio becomes disgusted and says he will be married to a wealthy widow. 14. What part does the pedant play? The pedant plays the part of Lucentio's father, Vincentio. 15. How does the story progress? The story progresses rapidly; while Bap- tista goes to make the marriage agree- ment with the supposed father the real Lucentio takes Bianca to the church and marries her. 16. Was the use of the disguised identities a fa- 54 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED vorite device of Shakespeare? Where has he used it in this play? Shakespeare made much use of disguised identities ; in this play Lucentio and Hor- tensio are disguised as teachers, Tranio as Lucentio, and the pedant as Vincentio. 17. What is the strength of this play? The story of Katharina and Petruchio is the strong thing in the play. 18. What is its weakness? Is the interest main- tained throughout? The weakness is the long drawn out story of Bianca and the numberless foolish in- trigues. The theme of the play seems nearer farce than comedy. ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS WELL ACT I SCENE I Define the sorrow which Helena says she affects and that which she says she has. "Helena's affected sorrow was for the death of her father; her real grief related to Bertram and his departure." — Hudson. 2. Is the clown an "idiot" silly by nature, or an "artificial" clown? He is like Touchstone, an "artificial" clown. S. Is the Countess sincere in what she says to Helena? She is shown to be so sincere, so sensible, so good as the play progresses that one must conclude she was sincere at this point. act ii — scene m 4. Does Bertram appear in a favorable light in this scene? Why? Not very. He may be excused somewhat 55 m SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED for objecting to a forced marriage but his language might have been more mild. See lines 119-123. 5. How would Helena act during lines 109-155? Her speech, lines 154-155, suggests that she acts in such a manner as would rouse our pity. 6. In what respect is Helena arrogant? In choosing a man above her station, but especially in her belief that she could com- pel him to love her. Had she not been successful her arrogance would have been more conspicuous. ACT III SCENE IV 7. What is your attitude toward Helena's action? SCENE V 8. Is your interest in the story any greater? Why? Scenes 4 and 5. These are personal ques- tions. ACT iv — scene n 9. Can you explain lines 20-31? Few passages in Shakespeare have been more belabored than this. To understand it, we must bear in mind what Bertram has ALUS WELL THAT ENDS WELL 51 been doing and trying to do. He has been swearing love to Diana, and in the strength of that oath wants she should do that which would ruin her. This is what she justly calls lovmg her ill, because it is a love that seeks to injure her. She therefore retorts upon him, that oaths in such a suit are but an adding of perjury to lust. As to the latter part of the passage, we agree entirely with Mr. Col- lier, that "these lines have not been un- derstood on account of the inversion." The first him refers to Jove (God), and whom, not to this, but to the second him;: or rather whom and the latter him are correlative. The meaning, then, / at once appears, if we render the sentence thus: "This has no holding, this will not hold, to swear by Heaven that I will work against him, or seek his hurt, whom I protest to love." What, therefore, does she con- clude? why, that his oaths are no oaths, but mere words and poor, unseaVd, un- ratified conditions. — Henry N. Hudson. 10. What dramatic purpose is served by this examination of Parollesf. 58 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED By the exposure of Parolles, who has been the counselor of Bertram, the hint is given that Bertram's turn will come soon. ACT V SCENE III 11. What does Bertram do that makes him seem even more unworthy? His whole treatment of Diana, but more especially what he says of her in lines 187-188, 211-220. lL2. Tell the whole story of the two rings. Is your opinion of Helena affected by the fact that she does the wooing? Bertram announces by letter that he will not consider himself Helena's husband un- til she gets a certain ring from his finger. lAct III, Scene ii. Helena directs Diana to ask Bertram for his ring before she seem- ingly consents to grant his request. Act III, Scene vii. She does so and he gives her the ring, Act IV, Scene ii. She then tells him she will place a ring on his finger that night, Act IV, Scene ii. In Act V, Scene iii, Bertram gives this ring to Lafeu, who recognizes it as one Helena wore. The King asks to see it, says it is one he gave Helena, and suspects Bertram has killed his wife. At this point Diana appears ap- parently demanding that Bertram marry ALUS WELL THAT ENDS WELL 59 her. She shows Bertram's family ring, tell- ing where and how she secured it. She asks for the ring he received the night he was with her. The King calls her attention to the ring Bertram has just given Lafeu and Diana says that is the one Bertram re- ceived on the occasion she has mentioned. Bertram then confesses that the ring was Diana's. Then the King wants to know where Diana got the ring. She sends her mother for Helena who appears, calls at- tention to the family ring which is not in Bertram's possession, and explains the whole plot. GENERAL 13. One Shakespearian scholar says the heroine of this play is Shakespeare' s "loveliest crea- tion" Do you agree? Why? 14. Does Helena enlist your sympathies? Why? 15. Has Bertram redeeming qualities? The fact that Helena wanted him so badly would, perhaps, suggest that he had. We can hardly believe it, however, because they are not shown in the play. Audiences believe what they see more than they be- lieve what they hear. 16. What is the central theme of this play? Love. TWELFTH NIGHT; or, WHAT YOU WILL 1. What dramatic purpose does Shakespeare ef- fect in the opening lines of the play? He announces that love is to be the im- portant theme of the play. 2. In Scene one, what information is given con- cerning the Duke? Concerning Olivia? That he is an educated gentleman ; attrac- tive ; political ; fond of music ; and in love, though his suit is not likely to succeed. That she is attractive; lovable; mourning her dead brother in an extravagant man- ner; not impressed by the love of the Duke. 3. Why did Viola take service under the Duke? Having lost her brother in the shipwreck, Viola decides to remain in the neighbor- hood until she secures some news of him. She has no friends in Illyria; Olivia will see no one; the Duke is a bachelor so she cannot go to him openly; she, therefore, disguises herself and secures employment as a page. 60 TWELFTH NIGHT 61 4. What revelation of himself does Sir Toby make in Scene Hi? That he is a hard drinking, boisterous, comical old chap who will entertain who- ever will listen to him, with his antics and his wit. 5. Does Sir Andrew fit the description given by Sir Toby and Maria? Exactly. 6. Does Scene Hi introduce a new element into the play? Yes, the comic element supplied by the common people. 7. Does Viola's position in the opinion of the Duke come as a surprise? Having heard the love-lorn speeches of the Duke in Scene i and having seen the attractiveness of Viola in Scene ii her high position in the Duke's opinion does not come as a surprise. 8. In the fifth scene does Viola aid the Duke in his wooing? No. See lines 313-317. 9. Does this situation remind you of another of Shakespeare's plays in which a woman falls in love with another woman disguised as a man? "As You Like It." 62 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED ACT n SCENE I 10. Why does Sebastian mention his resemblance to Viola? To foreshadow the coming mistakes in their identity. 11. What is the purpose of Scene Hi? It carries on the amusing sub-plot. IS. In Scene iv, what dramatic purpose does the clown's comment on the Duke's changeable- ness serve? It keeps the idea of the Duke's lack of constancy before the audience. The trans- fer of his affections from Olivia to Viola at the end of the play makes it necessary that his inconstancy be emphasized. 13. Do you enjoy the -fifth scene? Why? This is considered one of the most delight- ful scenes of Shakespeare. The situation is extremely funny; the wit clean. 14. What mental quality does Malvolio lack? Tolerance. 15. Was Olivia unmaidenly in declaring her love for Viola? Convention suggests she was. The differ- ence in their social positions might give Olivia some excuse. TWELFTH NIGHT 63 16. Are you less interested in her because she did? 17. Is your interest further aroused by Scene ii? 18. Does the episode of the duel appeal to you as humorous? These are personal questions. 19. To whom is Viola talking just after An- tonio's exit in Scene iv? She is "thinking out loud." The other characters are not supposed to hear her. 20. How is the plot further complicated by Scene i? By the appearance of Sebastian and the mistakes everyone makes in thinking he is Caesario (Viola). 21. Why does Olivia invite Sebastian to her house? The action is to be transferred to Olivia's house, where the story will end. This is the first step toward gathering the char- acters and action in one place. 22. Do you find the second scene humorous? Why? To be answered by the reader. m SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 23. What character clears up the action of the play? Sebastian. 24. How does Olivia act when she learns she has married an utter stranger? Surprised but not dismayed. She has known and loved Sebastian's double. 25. Does the sudden transfer of the Duke's affec- tions to Viola seem natural? His changeable character has been empha- sized several times in order to make this transfer seem more natural. 26. What becomes of the other characters — es- pecially Malvolio, Sir Toby, and Sir An- drew? " !. :. . in the end all the persons but two either have what they will, or grow willing to have what comes to their hand." GENERAL 27. Does the confusion of identity remind you of another of Shakespeare' 's plays? The Comedy of Errors. 28. Is the Duke's character presented consis- tently throughout the play? He is consistently shown to be inconstant. TWELFTH NIGHT 65 29. Did you enjoy the reading? Why? Shakespeare connects the Duke and his group of friends with Olivia and those about her. THE WINTER'S TALE ACT I SCENE II 1. Did Leontes have any cause for jealousy here? Leontes had no cause for jealousy, he asks Hermione to urge Polixenes to prolong his visit. Shakespeare has portrayed in Leon- tes a jealousy without cause, — cruel, vin- dictive, and remorseless almost beyond belief. 2. What does he order Camillo to do? He orders Camillo to prepare a poisoned drink and give it to Polixenes. 3. Does he execute the order? No, instead he warns Polixenes and flees with him to Bohemia. act h — SCENE I 4. What do the lords and ladies think of the queen? The lords and ladies feel confident of the queen's innocence. Lines 130-150. 5. Does she act as a guilty woman would be ex- pected to act? She has a dignity, calmness, and self-pos- 66 THE WINTER'S TALE 67 session without arrogance that a guilty person could not have. 6. What does Leontes expect to learn from the Oracle? Leontes expects to have his suspicions verified by the Oracle. .7. Is Leontes becoming more suspicious? In this scene Leontes is almost mad and suspects all of his attendants. ACT HI SCENE II 8. How does the Oracle affect Leontes? He is angered by the news from the Oracle and orders the trial to proceed. 9. What misfortunes follow? The prince's death is announced and the queen faints. Leontes thinks that she, too, is dead. llO. What is the king's attitude? Leontes becomes repentant and resolves to do penance by visiting daily the grave in which he thinks his wife and son are buried. 11. What is the meaning of the name Perdita? Perdita means lost. 68 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED ACT IV SCENE TV 12. In what ways is Perdita made superior to her surroundings? Perdita dresses in unusual clothes because of the sheep-shearing feast. She talks well as she distributes her flowers using much imagination and discernment. She is very attractive in appearance. See the speech of Polixenes about her. — Lines 154-159. 13. Do you like the love-story of this act? Why? The love-story in this act is pleasing be- cause the audience knows who Perdita is. ACT V SCENE I 14. Sixteen years have passed. Has the charac- ter of Leontes changed? Leontes has been much softened and broadened by his sorrows of the sixteen years. SCENE III 15. Do you think Hermione should have forgiven Leontes so readily? Hermione has waited all these years with- out trying to influence Leontes in any way; now, when Perdita appears, she is ready to go to her husband again; like a noble woman she forgives him completely. 16. Do you like this act? Why? To be answered by the reader. THE WINTER'S TALE 69 17. Which character is made most important in this play? Leontes is made most important. 18. On what incident is the action of the whole play based? The action of the whole play is based upon Polixenes's decision to prolong his visit upon the request of Hermione after refusing to do so upon the request of Leontes. 19. Compare Perdita with Miranda in "The Tem- pest." Perdita resembles Miranda more than she does any of Shakespeare's other heroines. Perdita is reared by the old shepherd and his wife. But in spite of this, she has a certain queenliness and dignity which she inherited from her mother. She seems out of place among these lowly folk. Miranda has been reared on the island by her father and has seen no one except Ariel and Caliban. She has a true womanliness and sweetness, but does not seem to have the playfulness and freedom that Perdita has. Their isolation from others of their sex, from their real position in life, and their girlishness are what probably suggests the comparison. LIFE AND DEATH OF KING JOHN ACT I SCENE I II. What message comes from France? The king of France demands for Arthur, son of Geoffrey, John's elder brother, England, Ireland, Potiers, Anjou, Tou- raine, and Maine. 2. What qualities does the reader admire in Philip? His utter frankness and bravery. 3. Can you account for Philip's wish to be known as the illegitimate son of Richard Cozur-de- Lion? Richard Coeur-de-Lion was regarded as a great warrior and a wonderful personage, so Philip would rather be known as his natural son than as the legitimate son of Sir Robert Faulconbridge, a man com- paratively unknown. ACT II — SCENE I 4. Does this situation seem natural; the discus- sion between Ellinor and Constance while all the men are waiting? 70 LIFE AND DEATH OF KING JOHN, 71 This scene appears rather forced. It is not likely that all men on both sides would stand waiting while Constance and Ellinor engage in a quarrel. 5. How do you account for both the French and the English claiming the victory of Angiers?, Lines 300-312. The battle was indecisive, so each claimed the victory. 6. How is the question finally settled? A treaty of peace is finally concluded. Blanche, a niece of John, marries Lewis Dauphin of France — for her dowry. John gives certain of the English provinces. 7. What are the principal thoughts in the bas- tard's soliloquy? The bastard rails at kings and says that France went into this war as God's sol- dier but has withdrawn to a most base and vile-concluded peace — drawn on by Com- modity — which meant self interest. He says Commodity has not wooed him yet, so he will rail. act ni — SCENE I 8. What are your feelings toward Constance? This scene more than any other in which she appears wins the admiration of the audience for Constance. 72 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 9. What are her predominating characteristics? A strong will and deep maternal affec- tion. 10. Does King Philip succeed in pacifying her? No, Philip speaks to her which only ex- cites her more; then Lymoges of Austria cries "Peace" ; she delivers a tirade against him when the Papal Legate comes in. ill'. Why does the bastard keep reiterating, "And hang a calfs-skin on his recreant limbs" to Austria? Constance says in speaking to Austria, "Thou wear a lion's hide! Doff it for shame, and hang a calf's-skin on those recreant limbs." Austria replies, "0 that a man should speak those words to me." Philip keeps reiterating them because Aus- tria had killed Richard Coeur-de-Lion and adopted the lion skin of Richard as his own adornment in commemoration of that event. Philip resolves to avenge his father's death. 12. What do you think of John's instructions to Hubert regarding the death of young Ar- thur? They are despicable; he gives Hubert the LIFE AND DEATH OF KING JOHN 73 notion that he wants Arthur killed, but tries to do it in such a way that he can not be held responsible for his nephew's death. 13. Is this a good picture of maternal agony? Yes, here she has forgotten her desire for revenge and is mourning for her son. See lines 93-105. ACT IV SCENE I 14. Would such a scene as this find place in a modern play? Why? Such a scene would not find place in a modern play. It is too agonizing, too tragic. No one nowadays wants to see a child about to have his eyes burned out. ACT V SCENE VI 15. Was the cause of John's death a surprise? This was a surprise because John had yielded to the Papal demands ; as he was still fighting with France, one would nat- urally think he would be killed in battle. 74. SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 16. Point out the reasons for saying that the imprisonment of Arthur was the turning point in John's fortunes. Up to the imprisonment of Arthur John had been victorious in his enterprises. When he gives his veiled instructions to Hubert, he shows his terribly cruel nature. When Arthur's body is found by the three nobles, they join the Dauphin; then John yields to the Papal demands but Lewis refuses to turn back. He claims the crown by right of marriage since Arthur is dead. An indecisive battle is fought. The English nobles return and are par- doned. Then John is poisoned by the monk. / THE TRAGEDY OF KING RICHARD II ACT I SCENE I 1. Which character interests you most? 2. Why? S. What important information is given the reader in Scene iv? (See lines 23-36). That Bolingbroke was very popular with the people and that he courted their good will. A man who courts favor does so for a purpose. ACT II SCENE I 4. What do you think of the king's attitude to- ward the dying John of Gaunt? 5. What will come of Richard's action in seizing the property of John of Gaunt? The act will enrage the old man's son. He will naturally try to regain the property. 6. Where in Act II . is the first suggestion of coming trouble? Lines 91-114. 7. Are you attracted to Bolingbroke in this act? 8. Why? 75 !76 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED, ACT HI SCENE I 9. When Richard receives the news brought by Salisbury and by Scroop does he act as you would expect him to? Read lines 144-185. Is this the speech of a strong king? 10. Does he act in a kingly manner in Scene Hi? No. Instead of meeting this powerful man with power he makes speeches and gives him fair words. How differently Boling- broke would have acted had he been king! 11. Do you find this act interesting? The spectacle of a strong man doing things is generally interesting. 12. Are your sympathies with Richard or with Bolingbrohe? 13. Why? Our sympathies are usually with the under dog, but Richard has talked so much and done so little that his fortune seems rather appropriate. ACT V SCENE V 14. What is your opinion of Richard 9 s soliloquy? It shows him to be a better philosopher than he was king. THE TRAGEDY OF KING RICHARD II 77 15. Does BolingbroJce deal justly with Extonf Yes. GENERAL 16. Compare the two characters Richard and BolingbroJce. Richard was emotional, lacking will power, philosophical, verbose, weak. Bolingbroke was determined, designing, subtle, unemo- tional, cold, treacherous, powerful. 17. Which deserved the kingdom? THE FIRST PART OF KING HENRY IV ACT I SCENE I 1. What was Henri/ preparing to do when news was brought of the "fighting in Wales and also in the North? Henry was preparing for a crusade. % What comparison does the King make between Hotspur and his own son? The King wishes that Hotspur, "who is the theme of honor's tongue," were his son in place of his Harry, who loves riot and fast company. How do you account for the fact that an audience of Shakespeare's day would sit through a scene like this and a modern audi- ence would not? Is it interesting to you? In Shakespeare's time, the theater was the chief place of amusement. There was not the hurry and bustle of the present. There was no scenery to shift and no waits between scenes. The speeches were the 78 THE FIRST PART OF KING HENRY IV 79 main attraction. In these speeches are lines which would be very funny to them, but would be meaningless to a modern audience. 4. Comment upon Shakespeare's power of de- scription after reading this speech of Hot- spur's — lines S9-70. These lines show Shakespeare's wonderful descriptive power. Here is a man ex- hausted and dirty from battle, leaning on his sword, when one of the courtiers im- maculately dressed comes up with a mes- sage from the King, demanding among other things, the prisoners. This courtier knew nothing of battle, and the sights dis- gusted him. The sight of him provoked Hotspur. £>. Why did the king refuse to ransom Mortimer? Sir Edmund Mortimer was uncle to the young Earl of March, the next rightful heir to the throne after Richard II. Henry was probably afraid Mortimer might try to place his nephew on the throne. 80 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 6. What are the important points in this act? This act shows Falstaff and Prince Henry at some of their mischief. It shows that Hotspur is worried about the rebellion. The sheriff goes to the tavern to arrest Falstaff for stealing, but the Prince saves him. During their revelry a messenger brings word of Hotspur's rising in the North ; Henry says he will go to court the next morning. act in — SCENE II 7. How does Shakespeare bring Prince Henry into a favorable light? By introducing the long interview with his father in which the Prince acknowl- edges his waywardness and arouses himself to a sense of his responsibilities. ACT IV SCENE III 8. How does Hotspur justify himself and his comrades for this war? Hotspur says that after Bolingbroke be- came King Henry IV, he demanded tribute from the whole state ; permitted March to lie in Wales without being ransomed; dis- THE FIRST PART OF KING HENRY IV 81 missed Worcester from the council-board; sought to entrap Hotspur; drove his father from court; and broke oath upon oath. Lines 90-105. ACT V SCENE II 9. Why was Hotspur not informed of the King's offer? Worcester says they will be all undone if Hotspur hears of the King's offer. He says the King cannot keep his word with them — that he will always suspect them. Lines 1-25. 10. Why was Hotspur's death necessary for the action of the play? Hotspur had rebelled from the beginning of the play — there was no other solution than his death. He was the leading spirit in the rebellion. If he had been imprisoned there would have been continuous plots to release him. Prince Henry's killing him shows the audience that the Prince's cour- age is real courage; overcoming Falstaff in the stealing scene might not have re- quired any valor. SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED^ SCENE xn 11. What generous act does Prince Harry per- form? The Prince grants the Earl of Douglas his freedom without ransom. Lines 25-31. 12. Is this sudden conversion of Prince Henry a natural transition from boyhood to manhood, or does the author do this to make a spec- tacular ending for his play? Some critics say Henry V. is Shakespeare's only hero — others say that his memory was revered in history as no other Eng- lish king's since Alfred. In the first part of the play he is used to show off Falstaff ; in the last part the author makes him rise to the dignity of his position in a spectacular though natural way. * Though extremely wild, Henry never shows any vicious or mean traits in the whole play. 13. What criticism would you offer of the play as a whole? Henry IV's character does not stand out as prominently as the principal character usually does. It neither attracts nor re- pels. The most likable character in the THE FIRST PART OF KING HENR Y IV 83 play, Hotspur, is killed. The part of Prince Henry is interestingly drawn. 14. Give a critical estimate of the part of Falstaff in the whole 'production. Sir John Falstaff is the most notable figure in English comedy. He makes his first ap- pearance in I Henry IV, as the boon com- panion of Prince Henry. He is noted for his wit and his drinking. He is the one who adds the comic element to the play and prevents it from being a mere chronicle. THE SECOND PART OF KING HENRY IV ACT I SCENE I 1. Why does Bardolph give Northumberland false reports of Shrewsbury? Before disaster success is always built up, so that the misfortune will seem more acute. Lord Bardolph comes in and tells what he has heard from a gentleman who had been at Shrewsbury. Lord Bardolph believes what he tells Northumberland. In the opening of the play, Rumor acting as Chorus says she gives false reports ; in Scene i, we find this report. 2. What effect does the real news have upon him? The real news makes Northumberland swear to go at once with his men and avenge the death of his son, but true to himself as in the first part of Henry IV, he remains at home. SCENE II 3. Of what value to the play is this scene? This scene being one of comedy gives strength to the preceding and succeeding 84 SECOND PART OF KING HENRY IV 85 scenes. It gives the audience a chance to laugh and relax. ACT II — SCENE II . How do you account for Prince Henry's being willing to disguise himself to wait upon Fal- r? Before the battle of Shrewsbury, Prince Henry had been noted for his low com- panions and madcap pranks. In Scene i he says he could be very sad because of the illness of his father, but everyone would call him a hypocrite. Now he has a chance to play a trick on Falstaff as in former days, so he seizes the opportunity and thus forgets his responsibilities. 5. What effect does being an onlooker instead of a participator in such a revel have upon Henry? Prince Henry is disgusted with the whole revel and regrets the time he has spent there. Lines 390-395. ACT IV SCENE II 6. Would a modern audience accept such treach- ery as John committed? 86 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED A modern audience would not accept such treachery. A Prince in a modern play would be required to keep his word. 7. Why does the Prince remove the crown from his father's pillow? What does the King think is the reason? Henry removes the crown from his father's pillow because he says it is a troublesome bed-fellow. He thinks his father dead. The King thinks Henry is eager to take his place. 8. Would a dying man be able to make such a long speech? Was he not jealous of his crown? Probably not. Henry IV had so much trouble with it, it was his dearest posses- sion and he wanted to keep it as long as he possibly could. ACT V SCENE II 9. How do you account for Henry V'$ retaining his father's chief justice? The Chief Justice explained the reason he committed the Prince to prison so well that the Prince, now become Henry V, tells him to keep the unstained sword. It is a device of the author to win the audience's approval for another of Harry's deeds. SECOND PART OF KING HENRY IV 87 10,, What happened to Falstaff? Falstaff was ordered to the Fleet with all his companions to stay until their con- versation seemed more modest. 11. What purpose does the Induction serve? The Epilogue? The induction serves as a link between the first part of Henry IV and the second part. The epilogue says that if the audi- ence be not too weary the author will con- tinue the story with Sir John in it and Katherine of France. Falstaff is the prin- cipal character in this second part and had taken London by storm and the author wished to retain public interest. 3}ut he evidently changed his mind, for Falstaff does not appear in person in Henry V. 12. What do you think of the second part of King Henry IV as compared with the first part? There is much more comedy in the second part of King Henry IV; the wars are sec- ondary in Part &. It lacks the glory of the first part; it has not the strength of Part 1. THE LIFE OF KING HENRY ST, 1. In what way does the first prologue give the hey note of the play? In the spirited references to great military deeds. 2. Why are prologues employed in this play? To narrate events which are not or cannot be shown on the stage and to suggest to the audience what is about to be shown. 3. Was Henry ignorant of the details given in this act? No. 4. Why are they given so fully? They are reviewed here in order to refresh Henry's memory. Of course the real pur- pose is to inform the audience, not Henry. 5. Do you like Henry's reply to the French Am- bassadors? 6. Why? A dignified, forceful, fearless statement is generally interesting. How different is this reply from the one Richard II would have made! THE LIFE OF KING HENRY V 89 7. What is the substance of the prologue? All England has made great preparations for the war. France has found three trai- tors who, for gold, have agreed to kill the king. The action will take place in Eng- land and in France. 8. Can you describe the personal appearance of these characters from their conversation? They are wordy cowards, hard drinking, low, dishonest rogues. 9. Why were such characters introduced in the play? They appeared in Henry IV; since this is a continuation of that story they natu- rally appear. They furnish the comic ele- ment which entertained. The parts were written for those members of Shakespeare's company who always played low comedy parts. ilO. What does Henry do in this act to compel your respect? The stern, dignified, sorrowful manner in which he gives the conspirators over to justice merits our respect. 90 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 11. What is the dramatic purpose of Scene iv? It presents to the audience those who are to oppose Henry and his forces in the com- ing action. il2. From what Chorus says in this prologue can you tell what is to happen in this act? Beginning with line 25 the action of Act III is outlined. 13. Do you like Henry s speeches before Har- fleur? You should. The one in Scene i is known by almost everyone who knows Shakes- peare. .14. Contrast the speeches of the French king with those of Henry. They are the speeches of brave men. 15. Note what Chorus tells you in the prologue. The low opinion of the French for the English; the condition of the English troops ; the manner in which Henry spent the night; the inability of the actors to represent adequately the great battle of Agincourt. 16. Does Henry's talk with his soldiers, and his THE LIFE OF KING HENRY V 91 subsequent soliloquy, serve any dramatic pur- pose? Dramatic suspense is created. 17. Do you think the practical joke Henry plays on Williams would naturally follow the bat- tle? After the period of great suspense which preceded the battle had given way to joy at the success of the English arms such a joke seems natural. 18. What purpose does it serve? It shows the human, democratic nature of this popular English king. !19. What purpose does this prologue serve? It shows the way the English people re- ceived their victorious king and, with apol- ogies — lines 3-6 — passes over a period of about five years. 20. What becomes of the comedy characters? Falstaff and Pistol's wife (Mrs. Quickly) are dead; Nym and Bardolph have been hanged; Pistol goes to England intending to lead a life of crime; the Boy walked away in Act IV, Scene iv. 21. Do you like Henry as a lover? His blunt, honest, unpolished Speeches make us smile and wish him success. 92 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 22. Is there a real reason for giving the epilogue? Henry VI, son of Henry V, lost all his father had won; the epilogue rounds out the story. 23. In what ways does this play differ from others you have read? The Henry V constitutes an exception to the general rules upon which Shakespeare worked. "High actions" are here de- scribed as well as exhibited ; and high pas- sions, in the Shakespearian sense of the term, scarcely make their appearance upon the scene. Here are no struggles between will and fate; no frailties of humanity dragging down its virtues into an abyss of guilt and sorrow ; no crimes ; no obduracy ; no penitence. We have the lofty and un- conquerable spirit of national and indi- vidual heroism riding triumphantly over every danger l#J lm . — Knight, Pictorial Shakespeare. 24. To what type of drama does it belong? It is a chronicle play of the historical type. 25. Are you attracted by the character of Henry? 26. Which prologue do you like best? Why? THE FIRST PART OF KING HENRY VI ACT I SCENE I 1. Can you tell from this scene what the story of this play is to be? We learn that the great Henry V is dead, and that Gloucester is to be Lord Pro- tector. We see the nobles are ready to quarrel; we learn that several great cities are lost to the English ; that all France is in revolt and the Dauphin has been crowned king. These events certainly sug- gest the coming story. £. What are your impressions of Joan La Pucellef She speaks bravely, directly, somewhat boastfully perhaps, but as one having au- thority. scene in S. What do you learn of the characters and am- bitions of Winchester and Gloucester? They are contentious, ambitious, disloyal, proud, self-seeking men. 93 94 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED SCENE V 4. What do you think of Talbot's speeches? ACT II SCENE I 5. Do you think this scene treats English and French impartially? 6. Why? SCENES IV AND V 7. What do you think of Warwick? 8. What do you think of Richard Plantagenet? act in — SCENE I 9. What special speech is prophetic? The speech of Richard Plantagenet, lines 61-64. 10. Is Shakespeare fair to the French in this act? His treatment here is the same as in Act II. These plays were written for English audiences and it was the custom in Shake- speare's day to ridicule the enemies of England. 11. What are the important events of this act? Henry is crowned at Paris ; Talbot is sent to punish the Duke of Burgundy for his THE FIRST PART OF KING HENRY VI 95 revolt; York and Somerset quarrel; Tal- bot and his son are surrounded by a su- perior force ; the quarrel between York and Somerset prevents the sending of rein- forcements ; Talbot and his son are killed. 12. Are your sympathies aroused by the fate of Joan of Arc? 13. Why? GENERAL 14. What is Shakespeare 9 s attitude toward Henry VI as developed in the portrayal of his char- acter throughout the play? Shakespeare develops a Henry without ambition, passive, insensible to the re- sponsibilities which are his. 15. Was the policy of the Bishop of Winchester selfish? He was undoubtedly jealous of the grow- ing power of Gloucester. 16. Why did Shakespeare make the Joan of Arc of this play so different from the Joan of Arc of history? He wrote with an Englishman's prejudices — for an English audience. It must also be remembered that in his day very little was really known about Joan of Arc. THE SECOND PART OF KING HENRY VI What passages in this act foreshadow events found in Act II? There are many, the more important be- ing: lines 75-103; 147-171; Scene ii, lines 87-107; and the Queen's speeches in Scene iii. 2. Why is the fact that Margaret had no dowry important? It was one of the causes of Gloucester's opposition to Margaret. SCENE II 3. Do the people know Suffolk is their enemy? Yes. ACT n SCENE I 4. The speeches seem to be but light conversa- tion; have they deeper significance? 96 SECOND PART OF KING HENRY VI 97 Yes, they refer to the determination to ruin Gloucester, which occurs later. SCENE IV 5. Do you pity the Duchess of Gloucester? Why? ACT III SCENE I 6. What are your feelings toward the Queen? 7. Toward Gloucester? 8. What do you think of the King? 9. What is the most important episode in this act? The return of York at the head of his armed troops and his demand for the Duke of Somerset. 10. Why is it important? Because the interview which follows ends in York's rebellion and defeat of the King. ACT V SCENE I 11. What do you think of York's first speech? SCENES I AND II 12. Are his actions equal to his words? He makes brave speeches, but they are not more brave than his actions. 98 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED SCENE II 13. Why does Shakespeare have York kill Clif- ford? In order to prepare the audience for the vengeance of his son on York and Rutland. 14. Is this the story of the fortunes of one man or is it more the story of events and men? It is more the story of events and men. 15. Was Margaret justified in her opinion of her husband? Yes. 16. Is this Second Part of Henry VI developed from Part One? This second part of Henry VI continues the threads of the story given in Part One in almost every particular. The two stories are as closely connected as any two acts in either. THE THIRD PART OF KING HENRY VI ACT I SCENE I 1. Does King Henry act as you would expect the son of Henry the Fifth to act? At first glance, no ; but as he becomes more familiar we recognize traits and habits seen in his father. At times, especially during moments of stress, he shows some of his father's spirit and energy but as soon as he has time to adjust his mind the traces of Henry V disappear. What do you think of Richard's argument, lines 22-34? The obligation of an oath is here eluded by a very despicable sophistry. A lawful magistrate alone has the power to exact an' oath, but the oath derives no part of its force from the magistrate . . . (John- son) Henry N. Hudson. 100 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED ACT II SCENES I AND H S. Are your sympathies with Edward, Richard, and Warwick, or with Margaret, and Clifford? Why? 4. What is the real nature of King Henry? Is he a coward? Henry was no coward, witness his death in Act V, Scene vi. He was so afraid of doing wrong he did nothing; he carried self-sacrifice to the point where it became a vice; the responsibilities of king-ship overpowered him; he would have been a better monk than king. ACT HI — scene n 5. What evidence is given in this scene that Ed- ward's character was understood? The asides of Gloucester and Clarence. 6. Summarize the important events in this act. The French king and Warwick, offended by Edward's marriage to Lady Grey, join forces with Margaret and march against THE THIRD PART OF KING HENRY VI 101 him. Edward is captured and the crown restored to Henry. Edward escapes, his friends rally round him with troops, they capture Henry and confine him in the Tower. ACT V SCENE IV jf. What is your opinion of Queen Margaret's speech, lines 1-38? She speaks like a man. Had Henry pos- sessed the qualities of his Queen his enemies could not have overcome him. 8. In what respects is Prince Edward different from his father? He does not lack determination; is not afraid of hurting the feelings of others; fully realizes what is due him and his father and demands it. 9. Do you find a suggestion in this scene of the murder of King Henry? See Gloucester's speeches, lines 46-50 and the speech of Clarence, lines 84-85. 10. How closely connected are the three parts of the play? 102 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED They are as closely connected as are the acts. 11. Have you been interested throughout the three parts? Why? 12. Do you think a modern audience would be interested by the plays? Why? Probably not. The fact that they are not played nowadays is evidence on this point. A modern audience is not likely to be in- terested in historical events, and these three plays are more of events than of per- sons. No one character dominates the ac- tion as in Macbeth, Lear, or The Mer- chant of Venice. 13. Richard appears in another play. What do you expect? Read the last 70 lines of Act III, Scene ii ; the last 36 lines of Act V, Scene vi; and Gloucester's asides in Act V, Scene yii. THE TRAGEDY OF KING RICHARD III ACT I SCENE I I. What makes this first speech of Richard, Duke of Gloucester, one of the famous speeches of Shakespeare? The description of the peaceful condition of England, the villain who gives it, and the villainy he plans. Are your sympathies aroused by this scene? Why? ACT II SCENE n What is the purpose of the scene between the Duchess of York and her grandchildren? It emphasizes Richard's villainy. Why is the third scene introduced? To show that Richard is suspected by some; to announce the tragic events which are to come. 103 104 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED ACT in SCENE IV 6. Is the last speech of Hastings important? 7. Why? Yes ; it foreshadows the death of those who have brought about his death. SCENE VII 8. What advice does Buckingham offer Richard? He tells Richard not to grant the audience quickly, and when he does appear, to stand between two churchmen with a prayer-book in his hand. Richard is not to be won easily. act rv 9. What purpose does Scene Hi serve? It emphasizes the wickedness of Richard and gives the first suggestion of the oppo- sition which is gathering. 10. What feelings are aroused by this scene? Hope that Richard may soon be punished for his wicked deeds. ACT V SCENE III 11. Why are the ghosts introduced in this scene? They show that Richard's conscience is at the tragedy of king richard in ios last aroused; they recall to the audience the monstrous crimes Richard has com- mitted; they foreshadow the doom which is about to overtake him. 1£. Could they be used in a modern play? The fact that ghosts are not used in mod- ern plays suggests the answer. Belief in the supernatural was general in Shake- speare's day; it is not so general now. 13. Is the last speech of Richard in keeping with his manner of living? "Slave, I have set my life upon a cast, And I will stand the hazard of the die." This has been the policy of his whole life. 14. When is your interest in the outcome of the story first aroused? 15. What causes it? 16. Do Richard's deformities have any bearing upon his actions? Yes. They wounded his pride; poisoned his whole nature; and drove him to resent all advances because he knew they were made in spite of his unattractive appear- ance. 106 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 17. Would Richard's motives have been clear enough without his many soliloquies? The audience would not have understood his character at once. His motives might appear clearly, but not clearly enough; certainly not soon enough. 18. Why was this play popular in Shakespeare's day? Because of the theme, and the great actor who played the part of Richard. THE FAMOUS HISTORY OF THE LIFE OF KING HENRY VIII ACT I SCENE I 1. What do you learn concerning Cardinal Wol- sey in this scene? Cardinal Wolsey seems to be the moving spirit of the English Court. He planned the meeting of the French and English kings. He is thought to be making a secret treaty with Charles V of Germany. He has the Duke of Buckingham arrested, charged with high treason, because the Duke had quarreled with him. SCENE II %. What important happening marks this scene? The Queen begs the King to remove some of the heavy taxation that Wolsey has put upon the subjects. 3. What is the object of this scene? This scene introduces Anne Boleyn to the 107 108 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED audience and thus paves the way for Hen- ry's divorce. ACT II SCENE I 4. How does Shakespeare treat Buckingham 9 s case? Shakespeare presents Buckingham as a popular and well liked Duke, who is falsely accused and sentenced to death as a traitor. 5. Why did the Cardinal wish to get rid of Buck- ingham? Buckingham had opposed some of the Car- dinal's plans, especially the meeting be- tween Henry VIII and Francis of France. 6. What reason does the King give for wanting to divorce Katharine? What was the real cause? The King says his conscience troubles him, because he married his brother's wife. The real cause was his desire to marry Anne Boleyn. 7. What dramatic situation does the author give at the beginning of this scene? He makes Anne Boleyn, Henry's future FAMOUS HISTORY OF HENRY VIII 109 wife, tell about the goodness of Katherine, his first wife whom he is preparing to divorce. 8. Read Katherine' s defence carefully and com- ment upon it; why is it regarded as one of the finest things Shakespeare has done? Dr. Johnson says, "Shakespeare's genius came in and went out with the character of Katherine." In her defence she pleads with dignity, humbleness, and sweetness; she does not censure the king but does re- view her loyalty to him and asks him to wait until she can be advised by friends from Spain. She and Hermione resemble each other. 9. Lmes 131^-1^0, Does this speech of Henry's atone in any manner for his action? No, this speech rather incriminates than exonerates Henry. 10. Does Henry's speech freeing Cardinal Wolsey from suggesting the divorce, exonerate Wol- sey? No, everyone feels that Wolsey was the one who wished for the downfall of Kath- erine. She has begged for the relief of her subjects from the heavy taxation that Wolsey has levied. She seems to under- 110 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED stand him from the beginning of the play. He feels that she is dangerous to his pro- jects. act in — SCENE II 11. Describe Wolsey' s attitude in regard to Hen- ry's marriage to Anne Boleyn. Wolsey opposed Henry's marriage to Anne Boleyn because she was a Lutheran. He said Henry should marry the French king's sister. 12. What is the cause of Wolsey* s downfall? By mistake Wolsey sent to the King some papers intended for the Pope. These pa- pers contained an inventory of his own possessions and a request that the divorce decree be withheld. 13. Lmes 350-37%. Why have many memorized this speech? Because of the great truths expressed in such poetic language. ACT IV SCENE I 14. By whom is the Queen's coronation 'described? Give a brief description. It is described by a third gentleman meet- ing the two others, who last met when Buckingham was sentenced to death. He FAMOUS HISTORY OF HENRY VIII 111 says the Queen came to a chair and sat down to rest; he never heard such shouts as arose to welcome her, the most beautiful Queen; then she went to the high altar where she kneeled and prayed. Then the Archbishop anointed her; put Edward the Confessor's crown on her ; gave her the rod and bird of peace, and all the emblems of her position. 15. Comment upon the death scene of Katharine. Dr. Johnson says this is the greatest scene in all poetry. Here the Queen speaks of Wolsey who has died and says, "Peace be with him." Even in her last moments she rebukes the messenger who bursts in and) addresses her as a princess instead of as a queen. Then she asks about the King and hopes he may ever flourish. She asks for the letter she has had one of her women write and tells what she had said in it. In speaking of their daughter she asks the King "to love her a little for her mother's sake, that loved him, Heaven knows how dearly." She asks him to re- member all her servants and waiting women. She asks her woman to ". . . 112 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED strew me over with maiden flowers, that all the world may know I was a chaste wife to my grave. . . . Then lay me forth: al- though unqueened, yet like a queen and daughter to a king, inter me." Note the details the Poet includes in this scene; ob- serve the unselfishness and dignity of the woman who had been so wronged. 16. How does this act show that wonderful ability of Shakespeare to put scenes in effective order? In reality Katherine's death did not occur for several years after the coronation. This shows Shakespeare's knowledge of the strength gained by contrast and the proper placing of scenes. 17. What is the chief event in this act? The baptism of Elizabeth is the chief event in this act. 18. What is the reason for the plot against Can- terbury? The jealousy of Gardiner, one of the bish- ops, and some of the noblemen. Henry was easily swayed by a favorite ; Cranmer was the fortunate one at this time. 19. Shakespeare is said to have been an accom- FAMOUS HISTORY OF HENRY VIII 113 plished courtier. How is this shown to be true in Scene v? The speech of Cranmer in Scene v was a prophecy of Elizabeth's reign. The Poet probably wrote it during her reign, so of course it was a great tribute to her. GENERAL £0. What do you think of this play as compared with Henry IV? SI. Give a description of Henry VIII gained from reading this play. Henry VIII was a vain, extravagant mon- arch. He was extremely selfish and had no feeling for others. He permitted himself to be ruled by his favorites ; at first he was under the sway of Wolsey, later of Cran- mer. His actions toward Katherine were inexcusable. TROILUS AND CRESSIDA 1. What do you learn from the prologue? The prologue says that the Greeks have come to ransack Troy because Paris stole Helen from Menelaus ; that the play skips the first part of the war, presenting only the latter half. Do you get the impression that the characters are Greeks and Trojans? Why? They do not speak and act as the ancient heroes of Homer do. One critic says that Shakespeare made men of them, while Homer made his characters gods and demi- gods. They certainly do not appear as heroic Greeks. act n — SCENE III How is the character of Ajaoo set forth? What is it? In this scene Ajax is described as heavy, 114 TROILUS AND CRESSIDA 115 clumsy, and lacking brains. He is shown to be very susceptible to flattery. 4. Are you interested in the play? Why? act in — scene n By what means does Shakespeare suggest that Cressida's love is not real? By making her show in her speeches that she is a flirt, and coquette, "a calculating wanton." Note her speech: "But the strong base and building of my love Is as the very center of the earth, Drawing all things to it! 9 ' 6. Is the nationality of the characters made more evident in this scene? How? The characters are even more unheroic. Their speeches show them to be full of the common human weaknesses. They are in this scene just mere men. They seem more like a certain type of Englishman of Shakespeare's day than like the ancient heroes. 116 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED ACT IV SCENE IV 7. How has Cressida shown her character in this By the way she replies to Troilus's profes- sions of love. Note the speech of Diom- edes: "... to her own worth She shall be prized ; but that you say 'Be't so,' I'll speak it in my spirit and honor 'No !' " scene v 8. Was Ulysses justified in saying what he did about Cressida? Why? Yes. Because of her free manner with the Greeks in the previous lines. The justi- fication is found more in the way she acts. However, it must not be based upon the kissing, as that was not looked upon as it is now. 0. What important developments does this act w? Cressida is exchanged for Antenor and taken to the Greek camp the morning fol- lowing her wedding night. Her true char- acter is revealed. Hector and Ajax fight, but soon stop and arrange for a short TROILUS AND CRESSIDA 117 friendly truce. Troilus plans to see Cres- 10. What does Shakespeare do to enlist your sym- pathies for Hector? Gives hints of his death by the speeches of Andromache and Cassandra; shows him to be a thoughtful brother; has Troilus tell of the kind way Hector treats the Greeks he overcomes ; shows Hector deaf to the entreaties of his wife and his old father. GENERAL 11. Has the play good qualities? What are they? Yes. There are several characters drawn with the power and life-like reality found in the better known plays. Many speeches show great wisdom, keen wit, or high sense of moral duty. There are several passages of poetic power. 12. Is the end of the play satisfactory? Why? 13. Has Shakespeare made vice attractive? Shakespeare never makes vice attractive. CORIOLANUS ACT I SCENE I Is the reasoning of the first citizen correct? The first citizen's reasoning so far as Co- riolanus is concerned is correct. Describe the character of Caius Mar cms as portrayed in this scene. Caius Marcius is portrayed as a real war- rior, anxious to fight; a patrician despis- ing the plebeians ; and an egotist. Does he have the sympathy of the reader? His strength, his assertiveness, and his striking personality win the admiration but not the sympathy of the reader. Does this scene which is such a contrast to the former and the succeeding ones throw much light on the play? This shows that the traits so manifest in Marcius have been cultivated by his mother. It also shows how he was re- garded in his home life. It breaks the 118 CORIOLANUS 119 monotony of the other scenes and explains how Marcius was at Corioli without Cominius. Why is it introduced? It is introduced so that the reader may be- come acquainted with the wife and mother of Marcius, before they become neces- sary to the action of the play. 6. Is Cominius portrayed as a leader of men? Cominius is not portrayed as a strong leader; he seems to wish to shun respon- sibility and to dislike fighting. scene rx 7. Why was Marcius called Coriolanus, lines 61- 68? Marcius was called Coriolanus because of his valor and success in battle before the city of Corioli. ACT II SCENE I 8. What is there in these two long speeches of Menenius that calls forth praise from many critics, lines 50-110? These two speeches describe Menenius him- self in a humorous way and even when he 120 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED is reproaching the tribunes for doing noth- ing he never loses his temper nor tries to elevate himself. These speeches are noted because of their true facts of human na- ture and of the pertinent way in which they are expressed. act in — SCENE II 9. What do you think of Volumnia 9 s reasoning? This shows what a deceitful woman Volum- nia was. It also shows that success for her son was her dearest wish. Seeing this side of the mother, who had the rearing ofi Coriolanus, enables the reader better to understand his character. ACT IV SCENE VII 10. What does this scene between Aufidius and his lieutenant signify? This shows the littleness and petty jeal- ousy of Tullus Aufidius and warns the reader of danger to Coriolanus. ACT V SCENE HI 11. Is the speech of Volumnia in the same strain as her former speeches? This speech of Volumnia contains nothing CORIOLANUS m of the selfishness and ambition shown in her former speeches. This is the speech of a noble woman pleading for her country and the preservation of her son. She does not ask him to become a traitor to the Volsces. 12. Does Coriolanus deserve his tragic end? Coriolanus is pictured as a giant in intel- lect, physical strength, egotism, and pas- sion. He has absolutely no regard for anyone, except himself; he is utterly fear- less and expresses his contempt for the common people as if they deserved nothing from the state. When he leaves Rome he has not the slightest feeling of loyalty: none can be aroused in him. When his mother, wife, and child come they move him to abandon his siege of Rome. The reason for that is that he realizes for the first time what will happen to his im- mediate family. But he does not try to arrange to go back. Coriolanus has been untrue to his native city, Aufidius is jeal- ous of him, he is "a man without a coun- try" made so by his selfish ambition, so there could be no other conclusion to the play. 122 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 13. What do you think of this play as compared with Julius Ccesarf Coriolanus was written some years later than Julius Caesar. The character of Co- riolanus stands out much more prominent- ly than does that of Julius Caesar. There is no divergence in any way from the theme. 14. What is the underlying note of the whole play? The underlying note of the whole play is a masterful egoism which drives everything before it. TITUS ANDRONICUS 1. What effect has war had upon the character of Titus? It has blunted his sensibilities and debased his inherent noble nature. 2. Are there speeches or actions in this act which approach the heroic? Some of Titus's speeches in Scene i; his action in sacrificing his hand to save his sons. S. Is the madness of Titus real or feigned? Give reasons. His mental condition is not normal, yet it would be wrong to say he was insane. A tragedy becomes less tragic if the action is the result of the plans of irresponsible, insane characters. 4. Does Shakespeare intend to show that the in- nocent as well as the guilty are sacrificed 123 \U SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED through revenge? Is this generally true in life? Yes. Many doubt that Shakespeare was the author of this play. Can you assign reasons for their doubt? The improbability of the events and the unnatural motives; the absence of the beautiful; the accumulation of vulgar physical horrors ; the total absence of any conception of light dramatic interests such as are found in Macbeth, Lear, and Othello. ROMEO AND JULIET ACT I SCENE I 1. What persons appear, or are mentioned, m the street-brawl scene that one should remember? Benvolio, Tybalt, the Capulets, the Mon- tagues, and the Prince. 2. What does the concluding line of Benvolio lead us to expect in later scenes? That Romeo will be shown other fair women and that he may be taught to for- get. 3. What is your first impression of Romeo? Note whether there is a change when he meets Juliet. SCENE II What events in the play are prepared for in this scene? Paris's suit; its favorable reception by- Juliet's parents ; the banquet ; the meeting of Juliet and Romeo ; the resentment of the Capulets at Romeo's boldness. 125 126 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 5. What sort of woman is the nurse, and what seems to be her standing in the family? The nurse is an odd mixture of vulgarity and refinement. She has no idea of mod- esty or of the sacredness of family rela- tions ; is without delicacy ; is full of words but not ideas. She is the one privileged member of the family, — the familiar old servant. Is Mercutio 9 s speech about the fairies intro- duced simply for its own wit and poetic charm, or has it some connection with the scene? One view is that it was introduced in order to halt the action. Another possibility is that it was written to give the man who played the part an opportunity to deliver a good speech. Actors like "fat" lines; here are some. From this scene and Scene i, do you take sides with either the Capulets or the Montagues, or remain neutral? At the end of this act, have any elements of possible tragedy appeared? Yes, in Scene iv, lines 106-113 and in Scene ROMEO AND JULIET 127 v, lines 140-148. Also note the feud of the Capulets and the Montagues. act n — scene n 9. What does this scene gain in power from the time and place? Romantic beauty from the time ; dramatic suspense from the place. SCENES IV AND V 10. Does the nurse show herself in any new light? In Scene iv she apes the manners of her betters, in Scene v she teases Juliet. Both scenes develop her character. act in — SCENE I [11. Whose fault was the quarrel? Mercutio was more than ready for the fight, but Tybalt caused it. See line 64. IS. What course might the story have taken if it had not been for this quarrel? The course of a comedy with the young people happy in the end; or the course of a domestic tragedy, Juliet's forced mar- riage to Paris supplying the cause. 128 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED SCENE III 13. Trace the changes in Romeo's emotions dur- ing this scene. From fear to despair, then to anxiety and grief, then to hope, and finally to joy. 14. Compare the treatment that Juliet receives at the hands of her father, her mother, and her nurse. Her father, in an outburst of passion, threatens to beat her and drive her from his house. Her mother treats her as only a selfish, petulant, cold hearted, unmoth- erly old woman could. Her nurse, true to her nature, insults her by wickedly advis- ing her to marry Paris. ACT IV SCENES I AND III 15. What is Friar Laurence's plan, and how fully does Juliet believe in it? The Friar's plan is to have Juliet drink the drug Wednesday night ; Thursday she is to be carried to the family vault ; Romeo is to be notified of the plan; Romeo and the Friar are to watch by her and when she wakes from the effects of the drug Romeo ROMEO AND JULIET 129 is to carry her to Mantua. She is terri- fied but she believes in it enough to follow the Friar's directions. 16. Why did Friar Laurence's plan fail? Because his letter failed to reach Romeo. IT. Is it dramatically effective to have the scene between Romeo and Paris? Yes. It shows the two lovers together and ends the dramatic life of Paris. 18. Would you have been satisfied if Juliet had revived in time to bring about a happy end- ing? 19. What is the value of the concluding scene, after Juliet dies? The final scene relieves the intense feeling of sorrow. The lovers have known com- plete happiness and have ended the feud. They have loved and served ; their lives are complete. TIMON OF ATHENS ACT I SCENE I 1. What does one conclude about the character of Timon in the first scene? That Timon is a gentleman who is generous to a fault, and who is imposed upon by most of his acquaintances. SCENES I AND II 2. Why is Apemantus introduced so early in the play? Apemantus is put in the play as a con- trast to Timon. He is introduced early so that we may see that he is a misanthrope from choice. Is there any sign of disaster foretold here? Flavius hints at disaster when Timon asks for the jewel casket. ACT II — SCENE II Why do these servants of Timon's creditors come to Timon now? 130 TIM ON OF ATHENS 131 The servants come now to collect bills from Timon. Everyone to whom he owes a cent is very urgent in his demands. They all seem to have forgotten what Timon has done for them. 5. Do they show the attitude of their masters in any way? Yes. They show it in their disrespectful way of talking to Timon. act in — SCENE I 6. How does Lucullus show that he is a coward? Lucullus shows that he is a coward by try- ing to bribe Flaminius to tell Timon he did not see Lucullus, instead of telling of his refusal to lend the money. SCENE h 7. What has Timon done for Lucius? How do you account for Lucius's refusal? Timon has given Lucius money, plate, and jewels. Lucius was like the other false friends, he would not lend unless he was sure of getting in return more than he loaned. scene in 8. What excuse does Sempronius give for not com- plying with Timon's request? 132 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED Sempronius says he will not give because he was not asked first. 9. What was the real motive for all these refusals? The real motive for ail these refusals was selfishness. They were all afraid they would lose their money. The author is supposed to have undergone some great disappointment just before he wrote this play. He seems to want to show that there are very few real friends. :10. Why does the Senate banish Alcibiades? Alcibiades is banished because he pleads for a friend, a great warrior, who in anger has killed a man. His over-zealous plead- ing strikes the Senate as almost reaching insubordination. It angers that august body, so they exile him. 11. What do the lords say to each other before Timon 9 s entrance? The lords try to excuse themselves for their refusal to help Timon and each one tells how Timon urged him to come to the dinner. TIMON OF ATHENS 133 1#. What do you think of Timon's second ban- quet as a stage device? The second banquet would produce much merriment for the audience. It gives ac- tion to the play. ACT IV SCENE I 13. Had Timon cause to deliver such a speech? No, Timon had not just cause to deliver such a speech to all Athens. He had not tried to find real friends nor anything good after the refusals of his false friends. scene ni — line 173 14. Timon to Alcibiades — "Yes, thou spoke st well of me." To what does this refer? Alcibiades speaks well of Timon in Scene iii, lines 93-96. His statement in line 173 implies that Alcibiades was banished on account of Timon, but there is nothing to warrant such a belief. His speech be- fore the Senate is for an unnamed friend. 15. What is the difference between Timon and Apemantus? Timon was in his early days an optimist; he becomes a misanthrope because the ones whom he regarded as friends proved false. He goes as far as he can in the 134 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED opposite direction of his former thoughts. Every thing formerly beautiful now be- comes ugly and base. There is no good in v anything. It is purely a mental condi- tion. Apemantus's misanthropy is rather an affectation, he pretends to dislike every- body and everything, but he goes every- where, and probably enj oys railing. There is no joy in Timon's condition. 16. Is Timon insane? No, he is simply embittered. 17. What does he say to the Senators? He says, "Tell Athens — that whoso please to stop affliction, let him take his haste, come hither ere my tree hath felt the ax — And hang himself." [18. What compromise does Alcibiades make with the city of Athens? The Senators are to open the gates and select the enemies of Alcibiades and Timon ; only these are to be killed. H9. With what other play of Shakespeare would you compare this? This play might be compared with Corio- lanus. JULIUS CESAR ACT I SCENE n Were you attracted to Ccesar upon his -first en- trance? Why? What means does Shakespeare employ to he- little the character of Julius Casar? He makes Caesar superstitious, bombastic, boastful, physically unfit, deaf in one ear, a victim of epilepsy. What is the purpose of the shouts and flour- ishes while Brutus and Cassius are talking? To show the audience that Brutus's fears for the safety of the Republic were well grounded to the end that sympathy will be with him when he joins the conspirators. They likewise have an effect upon Brutus, crystallizing the fears he has had. 4. Whose judgment is best in regard to Antony, Cassius's or Brutus's? Cassius's. 5. Are there other evidences of Brutus's judg- ment in this first scene? 135 136 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED Yes. In his third speech; in his objection to the conspirators taking an oath; his remark about Cicero. 6. Do lines 229 to 308 give you -further light on Brutus's character? These lines show the beautiful family life of Brutus and Portia. They show Brutus is gentle, kind, tender, loving, and gener- ous. 7. Does Ccesar appear to advantage in Scene iif This scene emphasizes the unattractive side of Csesar. Here he is superstitious, boast- ful, patronizing, uncertain, easily flat- tered. 8. What is the dramatic purpose of Scene iv? It emphasizes Caesar's danger ; shows Bru- tus has told Portia the plan; contrasts Portia's distress with Calpurnia's ; creates suspense in the audience. 9. What are the effects of Ccesar 9 s speeches up to line 75, Scene if They alienate sympathy for him because of his bombastic boastfulness. 10. Why is the question Cassius addresses to Treb onius significant f This is the dramatic end of the first half JULIUS CMSAR 137 of the play. This question makes promi- nent the man who is to avenge Caesar's death. 11. Does Antony suggest what he intends to do? In lines 148-163, 183-210, 225-230, his manner more than his words suggests his plan. Beginning with line 254 his words and his actions clearly show his intentions. 12. Is another case of poor judgment shown in this scene? Yes, when he gives Antony permission to exhibit Caasar's body to the people and to speak at the funeral. 13. Can you explain the reason for having Brutus speak in prose and Antony in poetry? Brutus's speech is philosophic and is ad- dressed to the reason; argumentative and philosophic thoughts are not subjects for verse. Antony's speech is emotional and is addressed to the feelings ; impassioned, emotional thoughts are natural subjects for verse. 14. What is the dramatic purpose of Scene Hi? It shows the effect of Antony's speech 138 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED upon the common people. The audience understands that the conspirators are re- pudiated by the citizens. Antony is in favor. P.5. Does the first scene change your opinion of Antony? 16. How does the third scene advance the story? By announcing the death of Portia, the de- cision to fight at Philippi, and the warn- ings of the ghost of Cassar. 17. What are the causes of the quarrel between Brutus and Cassius and what are the reasons for the reconciliation? The differences in the natures of the two men: Brutus's failure to grant Cassius's request for leniency in the case of Lucius Pella; Brutus's reference to the suspicion that Cassius has taken bribes; Cassius's failure to send the gold to Brutus; the strain under which the two men are living. They are reconciled because of the real affection each has for the other; and the realization on the part of Cassius of the nobility of Brutus's character. 18. Why did Portia hill herself? Because she lacked that fortitude which she so admired in her husband. JULIUS CMSAR 139 19. Why did Cassius yield to Brutus in the mat- ter of choosing the battleground on which to meet their enemies? He is overawed by the high principles of Brutus. It is in keeping with his whole attitude toward Brutus; he has yielded to him throughout the play. It again places the mistake on the shoulders of Brutus. 20. Trace carefully the progress of the battle through this act, Brutus and his forces attack Antony and Octavius. The troops commanded by Cas- sius are routed; Brutus is at first success- ful and his soldiers begin pillaging. Pin- darus, mistaken, reports that Titinius is taken by the enemy ; Cassius, overwhelmed, orders Pindarus to kill him, which he does. Titinius and Messala enter and report the success of the troops under Brutus and the defeat of those under Cassius. Brutus is discouraged by the death of Cassius, his troops are forced to give ground and he kills himself. SI. Is there any point at which the play could end before it does? No. 140 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 22. How does Brutus die? See Scene v, line 50. 23. What does Antony say of Brutus? See Scene v, lines 68-81. 24. Is he justified in saying it? Yes. 25. Is that part of the play which precedes the speech of Antony, or that which follows it, the more interesting? 26. What are the real causes of Brutus's failure? His impractical nature; his attempt to guide history according to his personal desires; his attempt to fight God's bat- tles with the devil's weapons. 27. In what respect is Cassius shown to be su- perior to Brutus? In his ability to see things quickly, clearly, and practically. He is not a theoretical idealist, but a man of experience and a keen judge of men and affairs. MACBETH ACT I SCENES I AND in 1. What is the dramatic function of the Weird Sisters in this play? To make visible to the audience the half formed thoughts of Macbeth. They form a setting for the action which is a struggle between the powers of good and the powers of evil. % In how many ways are you interested in Mac- beth before he appears? His name is mentioned six times before he appears. Interest is aroused because the Weird Sisters announce a coming meeting with Macbeth ; because the Sergeant speaks so highly of his bravery and ability; and because the king honors him even before he appears. 3. What are the first words uttered by Macbeth and what is their dramatic significance? "So foul and fair a day I have not seen." Scene iii, line 38. They foreshadowed the evil influences which appear later. They suggest that Macbeth is already in har- 141 142 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED mony with the powers of evil; their own words are in his mouth. scene in 4. What warning does Banquo give Macbeth after Ross has addressed the latter as Thane of Cawdor? See lines 122-126. 5. What does Macbeth tell Lady Macbeth in the letter? He tells her of meeting the witches; the prophecies they made; and of the new honor conferred upon him by the king. 6. How does Lady Macbeth describe her husband? See Scene v, lines 16-31. 7. What revelation does she make of her own character in the two soliloquies in the fifth scene? Is it the same revelation she makes of herself to Macbeth a moment later? 1. That she thought clearly and accu- rately ; that she was resourceful, strong of purpose, resolute, filled with a great love for her husband; ambitious for her hus- band; self-sacrificing. 2. Yes. 8. What is the dramatic purpose of the comments of Duncan and Banquo concerning MacbetKs Castle? MACBETH 143 The outward charm of the castle and the gentleness of Duncan emphasize the hor- ror of the murder which is to come. SCENE VII 9. What are Macbeth' 's reasons for not killing Duncan? What is his only reason for doing it? 1. Doubt that Duncan's death would put him on the throne ; the fact that Duncan is his relative and is now his guest ; Duncan's meekness and justice have made him popu- lar; the new honors conferred upon him by Duncan ; his own reputation. Macbeth did not shrink from the sin, but from fear of the consequences. #. No reason except "Vaulting ambition." 10. How does Lady Macbeth urge him on? By not thinking of the consequences she is able to goad him on with her own daunt- less spirit. She calls him a coward, a term no man can stand from a woman. 11. Who is the real and primal cause of the mur- der? Macbeth himself. 12. Was Lady Macbeth's motive ambition or wifely devotion? This is probably a personal question. 1M SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED Many think she was actuated by wifely de- votion, act n — SCENE I 13. To what does Banquo refer: "Restrain in me the cursed thoughts " etc.? He refers to the wicked thoughts which come to him in his sleep. He fights against temptation ; Macbeth gives way to tempta- tion. 14. How does Shakespeare contrast Banquo and Macbeth? By showing the way both men respond to the predictions of the Weird Sisters. 15. What reason does Lady Macbeth give for her failure to hill Duncan? See lines 13-14. 16. Why did Lady Macbeth, instead of Macbeth, take back the daggers? Because she can subjugate her imagina- tion to her will; Macbeth is unable to do this as yet. IT. Why do Malcolm and Donalbain flee? They suspect Macbeth and, afraid that he has not completed his murders, they flee. MACBETH 145 ACT III SCENE I 18. What is the dramatic purpose of Banquo's soliloquy? It shows the audience that Macbeth is sus- pected. It makes preparation for Mac- beth's soliloquy beginning line 48. It is also a revelation of Banquo, showing that he is not king because he has not had the opportunity. 19. Has any change taken place in Macbeth since the murder of the King? Yes, the three short questions in lines 19, 24< and 36 and his scene with the two mur- derers show he has gained command of himself and is no longer infirm of purpose. 20. Does he hesitate about the murder of Banquo? No. 21. What is the effect on Macbeth of the appear- ance of Banquo 's ghost? He acts as one wild with fear and horror. 22. Why does Macbeth determine to kill Macduff and his family? He feared him. It is introduced to make clear Macbeth's progress in crime and to give Macduff a personal reason for killing Macbeth. 146 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED ACT IV SCENE III 23. Is there any reason for Malcolm's delivering such a tirade against himself? He wishes to test Macduff. 24. How does Macduff receive the news of the hilling of his family? As strong men bear great grief. He does not speak at first. ACT V SCENE I 25. Describe Lady Macbeth' s sleep walking. This is probably the most intensely dra- matic scene in all Shakespeare. In this scene you see again all that Macbeth and Lady Macbeth passed through when they killed Duncan. She is broken, helpless, hopeless. Her brain has no relief. 26. How does Macbeth receive the news of Lady Macbeth 9 s death? He is so calloused by crime, so hopeless, so indifferent as to the future, so dead, that he is unable to realize his loss. scene vni 27. What caused Macbeth to lose courage at the MACBETH 147 Macduff's statement that his birth was not natural. How was the last part of the Weird Sisters 9 prophecy proved to Macbeth? Great Birnam wood did advance to Dun- sinane hill when the soldiers of Malcolm, to conceal their numbers, cut boughs and carried them in their attack upon Mac- beth's castle. 29. Where is the crisis in this playf The murder of Banquo. 30. Where ends Lady Macbeth' 's part in the trag- edy? With the fourth scene of Act III; after that she has no part in Macbeth's life. 31. What makes this one of Shakespeare's fa- mous plays? The striking, dominating characters, the intense, dramatic situations, the clear pic- ture of character development, and the story itself. 32. This play is full of famous lines. Do you find any you would like to memorize? 33. Why are Macbeth, Hamlet, the Merchant of Venice, and Julius Caesar the best known plays? 148 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED Because the stories are interesting, the ac- tion probable, the characters natural, the lines rich in meaning. 34. Why are they now acted more often than the others? Because of the interest in them and be- cause they give the actor an opportunity to appear in really great parts. HAMLET, PRINCE OF DENMARK ACT I SCENE I 1. How far do you read before you find your in- terests aroused? 2. How are the events of past months presented? By means of the conversation between Ber- nardo, Marcellus, and Horatio caused by the appearance of the Ghost. 3. Is there a particular reason why the Ghost should reserve its information for Hamlet? Yes. Hamlet was his son, the natural one to avenge the murder. 4. Enumerate the different ways in which the character of Hamlet is shown in this act. See Act I, Scene i, lines 84-86; Scene ii, lines 65-120; 129-258; Scene iv, lines 13- 91 ; Scene v. What characteristics does Polonkis display in his scene with Laertes? He likes to talk; to use precepts; to give advice. He was once a great man but is x now in his second childhood. 149 150 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 6. Do you find yourself interested in this scene? 7. Why? 8. Has Hamlet sufficient reason for feigning mad- ness? He knows that Claudius killed his father and that his own life is in danger. In order to preserve his life until he can avenge his father, he feigns madness. 9. Do you think he is feigning? ACT II — SCENE I 10. By what devices is the character of Polonius further revealed? His spying upon Laertes and his comments to Ophelia show his low, vulgar mind. Age has affected his mind as well as his body. 11. Summarize all the scenes between Hamlet, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern. See Act II, Scene ii, lines 226-399 ; Act III, Scene ii, lines 308-390 ; Act IV, Scene ii. 12. Make a list of Hamlet* s actions which help the impression that he is mad. See Scene ii, lines 170-221; 304-325; 394- 439. HAMLET, PRINCE OF DENMARK 151 13. Trace the development of the idea of Ham- let to make use of the players. The lines furnish but slight clue as to just when Hamlet first receives the suggestion to make use of the players. On the stage the actor shows this by his "business." Perhaps the plan to use the players to test the King first suggests itself to Ham- let in lines 380-386. However, it may be that the reference to Pyrrhus' ear (line 499) and the grief of the Queen (lines 527-541) gave him the first suggestion. His action which caused Polonius to stop the speech (lines 541-542) is evidence that Hamlet is disturbed by something. All except the First Player leave ; Hamlet asks if he can play the Murder of Gonzago ; he now has an idea which he develops later. (Lines 617ff.) 14. Does this first scene show Hamlet 9 s mental condition? His meditations concerning suicide clearly show it. 15. Does Hamlet know he is being observed? 16. If so, when does he make the discovery? Ophelia's queer speech — lines 93-95 — makes 152 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED him suspicious. In line 102 he either hears Polonius drop his cane or sees his hand (as in the Sothern-Marlowe production) and then knows he is being spied upon. 18. Is it natural that the play-scene should pro- duce the effect it does upon the King? 19. Give your reasons. Yes. The King has already shown re- morse; his conscience is alive. (See Scene i, lines 49-54.) SCENE IV 20. Does Gertrude know that her first husband was murdered? Critics disagree. It is a personal ques- tion. 21. Make a list of the evidence on both sides. 22. Is the ghost in this scene real or the creation of Hamlet's mind? Both opinions are held. 23. What effect does the death of Polonius have upon the King? It fills him with fear. He determines to get rid of Hamlet. 24. What lines through Ophelia's mad scenes are reminiscent of her love and grief? Lines 21-40; 68-71 ; 164-166 ; 175-200. HAMLET, PRINCE OF DENMARK 153 25. Characterize the feelings of Laertes as shown in his scene with the King. They are not very deep nor very sincere ; coming from Laertes they don't mean very much. He talks more than he feels. 26. Does the effect of the King 9 s suggestion on Laertes seem natural? If Laertes' real character is understood, yes. ACT V SCENE I 27. Does this comedy element seem out of place? 28. Why? No. Because of the naturalness of the characters and the action. 29. Do Laertes and Hamlet act naturally? Laertes did not feel deeply; he leaps into the grave with theatrical effect. His re- pulsive act makes Hamlet beside himself with anger and grief. 30. Does your interest remain at high pitch until the very end of the play? GENERAL 31. Contrast Hamlet with Laertes. Hamlet was moody, speculative, over 154 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED thoughtful, incapable of deliberate action. Laertes was impetuous, shallow, superficial, theatrical. 32. What is the main theme of the tragedy? 33. What is the most interesting scene in the play? 34. What makes it so? 35. What scene is second in point of interest? 36. Why has this play been produced so many times? Because of the great interest in the char- acter Hamlet. Perhaps more has been written about this character than about any other in all literature. 37. Gather all the evidence given in the play that Hamlet was mad. See Act II, Scene i, lines 75-110; Scene ii, lines 170-210; Act III, Scene i, lines 1-9; 92-157; Scene ii, lines 282-370; Scene iv, lines 104-138 ; Act IV, Scene iii, lines 18- 50 ; Act V, Scene i, lines 277-315 ; Scene ii, lines 82-139. 38. Gather all the evidence in the play that he was not mad. See Act I, Scene v, lines 170-180; Act II, Scene ii, line 223 ; lines 228-634 ; Act III, Scene i, lines 10-11; 56-90; Scene ii, lines 1-50 ; 59-92 ; his actions during lines 150- 280; Act III, Scene iv, lines 7-104; 139- HAMLET, PRINCE OF DENMARK 155 210 ; Act IV, Scene iv ; Scene vi, lines 12- 31 ; Act V, Scene i, lines 73-239 ; Scene ii, lines 1-80; 208-369. 39. Are you attracted towards Ophelia? 40. What is your explanation of Hamlet's weak- ness of character? Is it that he lacked will and ambition? KING LEAR ACT I SCENE I 1. Is Lear's demand of an expression of love from each daughter likely to bring honest answers? Because the answers must be given pub- licly they are not likely to be honest. 2. How are we to account for Cordelia's answer? Her love was deep, honest, real. Such love does not parade itself. A fine nature never makes a show of itself. 3. What is the character of Kent? Kent possesses all the fine traits which make a man noble. Self-sacrifice, loyalty, faithfulness and goodness are developed to a high degree in his character. 4i. Can you foresee, at the conclusion of this scene, anything of the course of the play? The remonstrances of Kent and the last 35 lines of the scene give hints of the com- ing action. • SCENE II 5. Does Gloucester's treatment of his two sons at all account for their attitude? 156 KING LEAR 157 So far as it is shown in the first two scenes, no. scenes in, IV, V 6. How far has Lear a just right to think him- self ungratefully treated? He has given wealth, position, and power • to his daughters. But since he made the gifts because the giving furnishes enter- tainment for himself he should not have expected a display of gratitude from those who received the gifts. 7. What true friends has he, and how do they show their friendship? Kent and the Fool. By remaining with him. 8. Is Kent in any respects like Lear himself? In Scene ii he shows some of Lear's stub- bornness and impetuosity which lead him to do and say unwise things. 9. Trace the growing cruelty of Regan and Gone- ril. See Scene i, lines 96; 103-105; Scene ii, lines 155-157; Scene iv, lines 1-2; 89; 148- 154; 199-200; 204-209; 239-266. 158 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 10. How has the kingdom prospered under Al- bany and Cornwall? It has not prospered. Albany and Corn- wall are quarreling; a French army is about to invade this "scattered kingdom." 11. What is the dramatic effect of the storm? It increases the sympathy for Lear. 12. Is Edgar really mad? If not, how do you ac- count for his actions and words? No. He feigns madness to preserve his life. 13. How is the King's mind affected? He becomes insane. 14. By what steps has Gloucester been led to his betrayal? See Scene iii; Scene iv, lines 120; 153-158; Scene v ; Scene vi, lines 1-3 ; 93-104 ; Scene vii, lines 42-70. ACT IV 15. What is the dramatic effect of the meeting of Gloucester and Edgar? It adds pathos and increases the interest and sympathy in the action. 16. What is the effect on Goneril and her husband of the news of Gloucester's fate? See Scene ii, lines 83 ; 95-97. KING LEAR 159 17. Describe the Dover Cliff incident. Gloucester determines to commit suicide by throwing himself over the Dover Cliff. He meets Edgar and not recognizing his son, asks him to lead the way to the Cliff. Ed- gar divines his father's intention and leads him across a field, but pretends they are climbing a steep hill. They finally stop and Edgar tells his father they are within a foot of the edge of a great preci- pice. Gloucester gives Edgar money and tells him to go away; he then throws him- self forward. Edgar, who has thought of this deceit to cure his father of his wish to die, now comes forward as another per- son who had seen the fall. Gloucester is persuaded that he did fall. Since he was not killed he decides to live and bear his affliction. 18. Describe the restoration of Lear's sanity. His mind is restored through the medium of quiet, rest, sleep, kindness, and Cordelia. 19. Why should not the play go on from this point to a happy ending? Lear's selfishness which led him to attempt to shirk the responsibilities of his position could not go unpunished. His whole life had been thoughtless, careless, selfish; the stern law of retribution punishes him. 160 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 20. How does Albany learn of the treachery of his wife and Edmund? By means of the letter which Edgar gives him in Scene i. For the contents of the letter see Act IV, Scene vi, lines 266-278. 21. Do you find any difference in character be- tween Regan and Goneril? Goneril seems to be more resourceful in wickedness; she plans and proposes while Regan only seconds the propositions of her sister. Regan is afraid of Goneril; Goneril is afraid of no one. Goneril offers herself to Edmund while her husband is still alive; Regan makes no advances to Edmund until after her husband's death. Goneril agrees to the murder of Cordelia, poisons Regan, and attempts to kill her husband. She seems more wicked than Regan. 22. Account for the fate of Cordelia. The innocent as well as the guilty are de- stroyed. 23. What is the last impression you have of the old Kmgf KING LEAR 161 24. In what form does Poetic Justice manifest it- self in the cases of Lear and Gloucester? Poetic Justice manifests itself in the case of Lear, in the realization of his misplaced confidence, and in his and Cordelia's death ; in the case of Gloucester, in the realization of his misplaced confidence, his cruel harsh- ness, and in the loss of his eyes. OTHELLO, THE MOOR OF VENICE ACT I SCENE I 1. What reason does Iago give for his hating Othello? Iago says he hates Othello because the lat- ter chose Cassio for his lieutenant instead of Iago. £. What motive is behind Roderigo 9 s acts? Love for Desdemona. What characteristics does Othello show here? Othello exhibits self-control, dignity, and courtesy in this scene; he acts like a true gentleman. 4. What was the magic by which Othello won Desdemona? Only the magic of words. His vivid de- scriptions of his boyhood and army life won Desdemona. 162 OTHELLO, THE MOOR OF VENICE 163 5. Is Othello a negro? The reader must not think of Othello as a real "black man"; he was an educated Moor from the Northern part of Africa. The Moors were a civilized people, re- nowned for their buildings and the beauty of their cities. Most critics agree that he was not a negro. 6. What do you think of lago's advice to Roder- igo? Iago advises Roderigo not to drown him- self but to be a man ; this is good. But he concludes very wickedly by urging him to try to win Desdemona from Othello. ACT II — SCENE I 7. In what ways does the villainy of Iago appear? He plans to make Othello jealous of Cas- sio; he encourages Roderigo to make Cas- sio angry, so that he will strike at Roder- igo. Iago plans to make the soldiers mu- tiny. 8. How does the brawl come about, and what is its consequence? Iago gets Cassio drunk and then has Rod- erigo insult him; the brawl follows in which Montano is hurt. It causes Cassio to be cashiered. 164* SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED ACT ni SCENE III 9. By what steps does Iago suggest jealousy to Othello? Iago suggests jealousy to Othello by bring- ing him home when Cassio is asking Desde- mona to plead for his reinstatement, and by hinting that Cassio ought not to meet Desdemona alone. After Desdemona has gone Iago pretends to know more about Cassio than he tells. 10. Is Othello too easily convinced? Othello believed Iago to be a true friend. The former's character was so straight- forward that he never suspected anyone of being dishonest, so that it was not strange that he should be moved by Iago's insinuations. When jealousy is once aroused it steadily grows. 11. Why is the handkerchief made so important? The handkerchief was the first gift Othello had given Desdemona, so it had a great sentimental value; later it becomes ma- terial evidence of Desdemona's apparent unfaithfulness. ACT IV SCENE I IS. Who is Bianca, and how is she used in Iago's plot? OTHELLO, THE MOOR OF VENICE 165 Bianca is Cassio's mistress. She comes to Cassio and he gives her the handkerchief to copy. Iago gets Cassio to recount his relations with Bianca ; Othello thinks he is talking of Desdemona. Through Bianca Othello learns where the handkerchief is. 3. To what conflicting emotions is Othello a prey on the arrival of Lodovico? Jealousy, rage, hatred, are the emotions preying upon Othello when Lodovico ar- 14. How does Desdemona bear herself throughout this scene? Desdemona is shocked and stunned by Othello's accusations. Her speeches to Emilia and Iago show loyal devotion to her husband. She is not angry nor resentful. 15. What touches throughout this scene bring out the innocence of Desdemona? When Othello tells Desdemona to swear she is honest, she replies "Heaven doth truly know it." She feels that it is so evi- dent, she does not need to swear. When he again accuses her she says "To whom, my lord? with whom? how am I false?" — line 40. She does not realize what he is ac- cusing her of. "Alas, what ignorant sin 166 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED have I committed ?" line 70 — All these show Desdemona's innocence. ACT V SCENE I 16. Explain Iago's reasons for bringing about the street-fight in which Roderigo attacks Cas- sio. Explain his reasons for his actions through the scene. Iago wants to get rid of Cassio so that Othello will not find out that lago's tales are false ; he wants to get rid of Roderigo because he has the latter's money and jew- els which he does not propose to give up. He cannot keep his bargain with Roderigo and fears his treachery will be discovered. Iago is there to help, he wounds Cassio in the leg and kills Roderigo. Then he de- parts. He returns in a few minutes and lays the blame on Bianca. scene n 17. What is Othello' *s mood at the opening of the scene? Othello is in a very contrite mood; his anger seems to have passed, and left him with the idea that he must kill Desdemona. He still loves her. OTHELLO, THE MOOR OF VENICE 167 18. What does Desdemona say that enrages him? Desdemona says, "I never did offend you in my life; never loved Cassio but with such general warranty of heaven as I might love : I never gave him token." Lines 55-61. 19. What sort of character does Emilia shorn, in comparison with earlier scenes? In earlier scenes Emilia has been coarse, good-natured, and not above petty thiev- ing, but now when she finds that her mis- tress is killed she rises to the very heights in character development, she proves Des- demona's innocence and rails at her hus- band; she tells of her part in taking the handkerchief, even though she knows Iago may kill her. 20. What lines of Othello most justly describe himself? Line 822. "O fool, fool, fool !" 21. Do Othello and Desdemona suffer because of any faults or weaknesses of their own, or purely through the evil intent of others? Othello suffers because he is over trustful of Iago and jealous of his wife. Regard- ing Desdemona she seems to suffer through the evil intent of others. Critics argue on both sides. 168 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED In this play Shakespeare portrays the pas- sion of jealousy as developed in a wicked man and in a frank, good man. Make a compara- tive study of I ago and Othello from this view- point. In lago we see jealousy working through hatred caused by the good fortune of oth- ers. In Othello we see jealousy working through love and personal pride. Macaulay said of this play : "Othello is, per- haps, the greatest work in the world." Do you agree with him? Why? Can you discover the elements in the play which caused Macaulay to make this state- ment? He suggests them himself by saying ". . . from love strong as death, and jealousy cruel as the grave?" ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA ACT I SCENE I 1. What does Philo think of Antony 9 s love for Cleopatra? Lines 11-13 answer this question. &-3. Describe Cleopatra's beauty. Do you see her as light or dark? Do you think of her as being exceedingly beautiful? She was probably light, not dark; more Greek than Egyptian. That she was ex- ceedingly beautiful also seems clear, though her beauty was surpassed by her charm of manner and bewitching personality. How- ever, the degree of her beauty is a matter of personal opinion; many critics think she was not exceedingly beautiful. From this scene what are your conclusions con- cerning life at Cleopatra's court? That it was care-free, luxurious and volup- tuous. 170 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 5. Does Antony realize the danger of his infatu- ation for Cleopatra? The question is answered in lines 120-121, 132-134, 136, 140, 157. 6-7. From what you have seen of Cleopatra in Act I, are you interested in her? Why? This should be answered by the reader. 8. Contrast the spirit shown in the first four scenes of this act with those scenes of Act I which are laid in Egypt. 9. What is the difference? 8 and 9. The spirit of these four scenes is aggressive while the spirit of the Egyptian scenes is sluggish and indolent. The spirit of accomplishment is found in the first four scenes of Act II ; the spirit of love is found in the Egyptian scenes. The difference is that which exists between accomplishment and indulgence. 110. How does Enobarbus conduct himself in this scene? Like the independent, brave, plain spoken soldier he wag. 'ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA 171 11. How do Marcenas and Agrippa show natural characteristics? In lines 175-251 they show they are nat- ural human men in their desire to hear the stories from Cleopatra's court. They are great gossips. 1£. How do you interpret Cleopatra 9 s actions upon the receipt of the news of Antony's mar- riage to Octavia? Such a passionate nature as Cleopatra's would be moved to ungovernable fury at such news. 13. What does Enobarbus think of Antony's mar- riage to Octaviaf See lines 123-140. 14. Are you interested in Enobarbus? Why? Hudson says of Enobarbus : "On the whole, after Octavia, Enobarbus is rather the noblest character in the play. His blunt, prompt, rough-spoken sagacity, mingled with a certain slyness of thought, a racy infusion of humor, and a pungent, search- ing irony of discourse interpret with re- morseless fidelity the moral import of the 112 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED characters and movements about him ; while the splitting of his heart with grief and re- morse for having deserted the ship of his master which he knew to be sinking shows him altogether a noble vessel of manhood." SCENE VII 15. From this scene what is your judgment of Lepidus? That he is weak, without the ability of his colleagues ; that he is not necessary to their plans and will be dropped as soon as he becomes less useful. act in — SCENE I 16. How does this scene show that the ancient mili- tary spirit has become degenerate? What Silus advises any captain would, a few years before, have done for his gen- eral. Lines 5-34 show how far the ancient war spirit has become debased. SCENES II AND IV 17. What is Antony's attitude toward his wife? That of a kind, generous, indulgent hus- band toward an equally excellent wife. ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA 173 18. Contrast these scenes with several in which Antony is seen with Cleopatra. In these two scenes only that which is good in Antony is shown ; in his scenes with Cleo- patra the dissolute and voluptuous side of his character is shown. scene v 19. Are you surprised by the gossip of this scene? 20. Why? No, because at every appearance in the play Lepidus has shown he was but a satel- lite. scene vn 21. Does Cleopatra help or hinder Antony? She hinders him, as Enobarbus says in lines 11-16. SCENES VIII, IX, X, XI, XII 22. Why are so many short scenes given? In order to show different parts and phases of the battle to the audience. 23. On what grounds can you explain Antony's flight? His infatuation for Cleopatra. Many similar actions may be cited from modern life. 174 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 24. What are Cleopatra's pleas for her part in the disaster? Her pleas consist of sixteen words! See lines 55-56, 61, 68. SCENE xni 25. Read carefully all the speeches of Enobarbus. 26. What do you think of them? Of Enobarbus? They are keen and prophetic. When he talks of leaving Antony he shows his rugged nature has been poisoned by con- tact with the East. ACT IV SCENE III 27. Why was this scene introduced? To give a hint of the coming misfortune. 28. What are Antony's emotions in this scene? Deep regret, sorrow. SCENE VII AND VIII 29. What is the dramatic effect of these two scenes? They raise the fortunes of Antony in order that the catastrophe may seem the greater. ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA 175 SCENE IX SO. What drives Enobarbus to his death? Remorse. scene xn 31. Why does Antony turn against Cleopatra? He is beside himself at the disgrace of his defeat. SCENE XIV Does Antony {lines 35 to 140) act as you would expect him to? Exactly. One cannot imagine Antony gracing Cassio's victory as a prisoner. His dying wish to be near Cleopatra is also natural. SCENE xv What lines appeal to you? Why? To be answered by the reader. ACT V SCENE I 34. What were C&sar's feelings toward Antony? See lines 14-49. 176 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 85. What is the best speech in this scene? Perhaps lines 82-92. 36. Why do the women about Cleopatra die? Because of their prominence in the play, through their close association with Cleo- patra ; and because of their part in the life at her court they had to die. 37-38. What are your feelings toward Antony and Cleopatra? Do you blame them? Why? It is a curiously powerful play, almost com- pelling one to look at Antony and Cleo- patra with indulgence. One realizes they must be censured and yet . 39. From what you read of Octavia should An- tony be severely censured for his return to Cleopatra? After the first reading one might say "No." Additional readings will show Octavia as a strong, womanly woman, worthy of the love and fidelity of an Antony. 40. If you look upon the love of Antony and Cleo- patra with indulgence, what is the reason? Because of Shakespeare's skill in hiding the grossness of vice. ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA 177 4T. What purpose does Enobarbus serve through- out the play? Enobarbus "is almost a chorus." He com- ments on almost every incident with keen and prophetic insight. 42. What great speeches do you -find in the play? To be answered by the reader. CYMBELINE ACT I SCENE I il. What purpose does this scene serve? This scene describes Imogen, Posthumus, the Queen, her son Cloten, and the Queen's evil influence upon the King. In this way the reader is informed of all the events lead- ing to Posthumus's banishment, after his marriage to Imogen. 2. Is there anything repulsive in this act? The wager between Iachimo and Posthu- mus is repulsive to modern readers; that the poet had somewhat the same feeling is evidenced by the artifices he uses to excuse Posthumus. The way in which Iachimo talks to Imogen about her husband is also repulsive to readers of the present time. ACT II — SCENE II 3. What qualities do you -find in lines 11 to 51? This speech of Iachimo is very poetic ; the way in which he describes the sleeping Imo- gen is beautiful. The metaphors that he 178 CYMBELINE 179 uses show his skill with words ; the whole speech reveals a villain with an excellent education. 4. What are your feelings? It angers the reader to think that Iachimo should have gained access to the room and it makes him want to punish Iachimo at Are you impatient with Posthumus? Why? Posthumus is too ready to believe Iachimo ; he says none of her women can be bribed, but he believes the worst he can of her the moment he hears it. act np — scene I 6. What purpose does this scene serve? This scene withdraws the attention from Posthumus and directs it in another chan- nel for awhile. It makes the preceding and the succeeding scenes more dramatic by changing the current of thought for awhile. It also prepares the way for Post- humus to come back to England. He comes back with the Roman army, but leaves it to fight for the King. 180 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED SCENE IV 7. What is your opinion of Imogen after read- ing this scene? Imogen traveling over land to meet her husband, only to hear that he has ordered her to be killed ; then the speech she makes concerning her alleged falseness ; and then her agreement to become a page all raise her to the highest place in the hearts of the audience. 8. Why does the Queen desire Imogen's ruin? If Imogen is dead the Queen will be able to put her son Cloten on the throne. ACT IV SCENE II 9. Are you satisfied with the action in this scene? There are too many actions in this scene: first Imogen taking the powder; then the fight between Polydore and Cloten; then the death song over the bodies of Imogen and Cloten; finally Lucius's coming and his engaging Imogen as page. 10. Why? The actions do not seem coherent. It does not seem necessary for Imogen to see the CYMBELINE 181 headless Cloten, whom she thinks is Post- humus. 11. What is the condition of affairs at court? The Queen is ill because she does not know where Cloten is; the King does not know where Imogen is ; the Romans are landing and the King does not know what to do without the advice of his Queen and step- son. ACT V SCENE I 12. What are the feelings of Posthumus towards Imogen? Posthumus still loves the memory of Imo- gen and regrets that Pisanio should have obeyed him by killing her. He thinks Pi- sanio did kill her and that the handker- chief has her blood on it. SCENE IV '13. Do you pity Posthumus? Why? Posthumus feels that he has nothing to live for, he has fought as hard as he can, wishing to be killed; then he is cast into jail, and sentenced to be hanged. He had never done anything dishonorable until he 182 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED was deceived by lachimo, then he ordered the death of his wife whom he idolized. 114. How does this scene add to your knowledge of the beauty of Imogen's character? Lucius pleads for his page, who was the most faithful page a man ever had; here was Imogen without her womanhood, but beloved for her goodness. The princes who thought she was a boy loved her as a brother. When they are made known, she rejoices in finding two brothers, instead of repining because she will not be queen. !15-16. Did lachimo deceive Posthumus for gain? Why? lachimo deceived Posthumus for the pleas- ure of deception and took only the ring which Imogen had given her husband. 17. What influence do the young princes have in this scene? The return of the young princes and Imo- gen makes the King feel like a new man ; it takes away the anguish of the Queen's death-bed confession and the death of Cloten. It makes the King lenient to the Romans and causes him to agree to pay the tribute willingly. CYMBELINE 183 ! 18. Is the end of the play appropriate? The play starts out as if it were to be a tragedy, so the end seems rather weak ; but the average play-goer would prefer this ending. The announcement of the Queen's confession does not seem in place here. 19. Whom do you regard as the central figure in the play? Imogen seems to be the central figure. 20. What do you think of the wager of the first act? The wager in the first act seems very fool- ish and very revolting. 21. Could such a wager be used in a modern play? Such a wager would not be tolerated in a modern play. A man is supposed to be his wife's protector, so he would shield her rather than expose her to any insult. 22. Compare lachimo with other of Shakespeare's •villains. lachimo is an educated man with all the skill and cunning usually attached to a criminal; he, like Iago, attempts to prove that a true wife is false to a loving hus- band, lachimo does not appear as often in the play as does Iago in Othello, and 184 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED does not spend all his time plotting against everybody as Iago does. Iachimo and Iago both appear as fully developed vil- lains at the beginning of the plays, while the wickedness of Macbeth grows as that play advances. PERICLES 1. Do the prologues in this play serve the same purpose that they do in the other plays? Yes ; that is, they describe events that must be known, and create an interest in what follows. Another stage invention of that day is introduced in this play with the prologues; that is the Dumb Show; this explained things not easy to explain by words. ACT I £. Does the material presented in this act seem suitable for a Play? The material presented in this act does not seem suitable for a play. It is a subject that would not be discussed in public now- adays. 3. What opinions do you have of the social life of the 17th century from the fact that this was a popular play of the period? Compared with modern standards, one would judge that the social life of the 17th century was very coarse and vulgar. Men 185 186 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED and women of the present day would not enjoy such a play. 4. At what point is your interest greatest in this act? A matter of personal opinion. act m — SCENE I 5. Compare this -first speech of Pericles with his first speech in Act II, Scene i. Is he in a differ- ent frame of mind? Explain. In this act, Pericles is begging the storm to stop. Now he has a wife to think of. He is not ready to die as he was in Act II, Scene i. He is now going back to his na- tive city, Tyre, because the cruel and wicked Antiochus is dead. In Act II he still had him to fear. , act iv 6. What time elapses between this and Act III? Fourteen years elapse between the third and fourth acts. 7.. What are the important events of this act? Cleon's wife hires a murderer to kill Ma- rina, because the latter is fairer than her PERICLES . 187 own daughter. When Leonine is ready to kill her, some pirates rush forth and steal her. They sell her to the owner of a brothel. Pericles goes to Tarsus and is informed of his daughter's death. Marina sends every would-be patron away from the house of ill-fame. ACT V SCENE I In what frame of mind is Pericles at the be- ginning of this scene? For three months Pericles has not spoken to anyone and has eaten only enough to keep alive to lengthen his grief for the loss of wife and daughter. Through what character is the supremacy of good brought out in this play? Mariana is a wonderful example of the su- premacy of good. GENERAL 10. Is this an easy play to read? Why? This is a hard play to read because of its many different scenes and its lack of unity. ill. What personal qualities are emphasized? Charity, Virtue, Patience, and Honesty are all emphasized. 188 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED 12. Cite instances which prove Pericles is a man of strength and of weakness. Pericles was not afraid to try to solve An- tiochus's riddle. He is brave in time of storm. After solving the riddle, he fears death and goes from city to city, not even telling his name in some places; when he hears of his daughter's death he goes into seclusion and forgets his duties to his city and his people ; these last actions show his weakness. 13. How did Shakespeare secure the unity which the desultory nature of this play required? By having Gower act as chorus and by having the Dumb Show given with the pro- logues, Shakespeare secures a certain amount of unity. POEMS 1. Which poem do you like best? 9>. Do you place it first because of the story or for some other reason? Personal questions which each reader must answer himself. 3. In reading these poems should you try to find moral lessons? No. 4. What should a reader try to get from poetry? Pleasure, enjoyment, delight. 5. What is the general theme of the sonnets? Love ; love for a young man in sonnets I- CXXVI, love for the "woman color'd ill" in sonnets CXXVII-CLII. 6. What is a sonnet? In what ways is it different from other forms of verse? A sonnet is a short poem of fourteen lines. The rhymes are arranged in a peculiar way: as, line— 1—2— 3— 4— 5— 6— 7— 8 9 10—11—12—13—14. Rhyme— a— b — b — a — a — c — c — a — d — e — d- — e — f — f. The lines are iambic pentameter. J. M. 189 190 SHAKESPEARE EXPLAINED D. Meiklejohn, M. A., says: Shakespeare's "Sonnets" are not formed on the Italian model, and can hardly be called sonnets at all. They are really short poems of three quatrains, ending in each case with a rhymed couplet. The English Language, page &05. Read some sonnets by William Words- worth. 7. Which sonnets do you like best? Why? 8. Do you find Beauty in these poems? 9. Is it beauty of thought, or is it in the way the thought is expressed? 10. Do you enjoy reading poetry? Why? INDEX TO CONTENTS All's Well That Ends Well, 55 | Antony and Cleopatra, 169 As You Like It, 45 Comedy of Errors, The, 19 Coriolanus, 118 Cymbeline, 178 Famous History of the Life of King Henry VIII, The, 107 Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, 149 Julius Caesar, 135 King Henry IV, The First Part of, 78 King Henry IV, The Second Part of, 84 King Henry VI, The First Part of, 93 King Henry VI, The Second Part of, 96 King Henry VI, The Third Part of, 99 King Lear, 156 Life and Death of King John, The, 70 Life of King Henry V, The, 88 Love's Labour's Lost, 28 Macbeth, 141 Measure for Measure, 16 Merchant of Venice, The, 38 Merry Wives of Windsor, The, 12 Midsummer-Night's Dream, A, 32 Much Ado About Nothing, 24 Othello, The Moor of Venice, 162 Pericles, 185 Romeo and Juliet, 125 Sonnets, 189 Taming of the Shrew, The, 50 Tempest, The, 1 Timon of Athens, 130 Titus Andronicus, 123 Tragedy of King Richard II, The, 75 Tragedy of King Richard III, The, 103 Troilus and Cressida, 114 Twelfth Night; or, What You Will, 60 Two Gentlemen of Verona, The, 6 Winter's Tale, The, 66