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HENRY VIII
A line-by-line translation

Act 1, Prologue
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

CHORUS CHORUS
I come no more to make you laugh: things now, I haven't come to make you laugh anymore. Now we're
That bear a weighty and a serious brow, showing you things that are serious, sad, noble, and full of
Sad, high, and working, full of state and woe, dignity and sadness: scenes that make you cry. Those who
Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow, are able to feel pity can cry at this if they want. The subject
5 We now present. Those that can pity, here deserves it. Those who pay money hoping to see something
May, if they think it well, let fall a tear; true will find truth here too. Those who have only come to
The subject will deserve it. Such as give see a play or two to make themselves happy can sit through
Their money out of hope they may believe, this play if they want to and if they can sit still. I'll make sure
May here find truth too. Those that come to see they get a good show lasting two short hours in return for
10 Only a show or two, and so agree their money. Only those who come to see a funny, dirty 1 The "fellow" in "yellow" in the
The play may pass, if they be still and willing, play, to hear the noise of shields clashing together, or to see original text refers to the role of the
I'll undertake may see away their shilling a man in a long fool's coat 1 with a yellow border will not fool or clown. Fools were
Richly in two short hours. Only they be satisfied. Because, dear listeners, spoiling the true story distinguished from other characters
by the distinctive coats they wore. In
That come to hear a merry bawdy play, we have chosen to tell with a show full of fools and fighting Shakespeare's texts, fools, who are
15 A noise of targets, or to see a fellow would mean losing all our intelligent friends as well as usually peasants, jesters, or lower
In a long motley coat guarded with yellow, giving up our own brains and our intention only to show the class folk in the service of a king, often
Will be deceived; for, gentle hearers, know, truth. So, for goodness' sake, you who are known to be the speak with more wisdom than the
noble characters they serve.
To rank our chosen truth with such a show best and happiest theater audience in town, be as sad as we
As fool and fight is, beside forfeiting want to make you. Imagine you see the real characters in
20 Our own brains, and the opinion that we bring, our noble story as if they were alive. Imagine you see them
To make that only true we now intend, powerful and followed by a sweaty crowd of a thousand
Will leave us never an understanding friend. friends. Then see how, all at once, this power runs into
Therefore, for goodness' sake, and as you are known disaster. And if you can be happy then, I'll believe a man
The first and happiest hearers of the town, can weep on the day he gets married.
25 Be sad, as we would make ye: think ye see
The very persons of our noble story
As they were living; think you see them great,
And follow'd with the general throng and sweat
Of thousand friends; then in a moment, see
30 How soon this mightiness meets misery:
And, if you can be merry then, I'll say
A man may weep upon his wedding-day.

Act 1, Scene 1
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter NORFOLK at one door; at the other, BUCKINGHAM and NORFOLK enters at one door, BUCKINGHAM 1 and
ABERGAVENNY ABERGAVENNY at the other. 1 Edward Stafford, the 3rd Earl of
Buckingham, becomes a central figure
in the play's first act. He is one of
many characters who make the king
suspicious (whether for true crimes or
not) and suffer for it.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
Good morrow, and well met. How have ye done Good morning, and good to see you. How have you been
Since last we saw in France? since we last met in France?

NORFOLK NORFOLK
I thank your grace, Thank you, sir, I've been well. And ever since I've been
Healthful; and ever since a fresh admirer thinking admiringly about what I saw there.
5 Of what I saw there.

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BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
An untimely ague An unfortunate sickness kept me prisoner in my room when 2 Buckingham's speech here refers
Stay'd me a prisoner in my chamber when those two men 2 as glorious and bright as suns met in the to the Field of the Cloth of Gold, a
Those suns of glory, those two lights of men, valley of Andren. meeting in France between King
Met in the vale of Andren. Henry VIII of England and King Francis
I of France that was intended to
promote peace and friendship
between the two countries. It was a
magnificent display of wealth on both
sides.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
10 'Twixt Guynes and Arde: Between Guynes and Arde. I was there and saw them greet
I was then present, saw them salute on horseback; each other on horseback. I saw them when they got off the
Beheld them, when they lighted, how they clung horses. They held on to each other so hard when they
In their embracement, as they grew together; hugged that it looked like they were two plants growing
Which had they, what four throned ones could have together. If they had, those two together would have been
15 weigh'd worth more than four kings.
Such a compounded one?

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
All the whole time The whole time I was stuck in my room like a prisoner.
I was my chamber's prisoner.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Then you lost Then you lost your chance to see glory on earth. It's as if all
20 The view of earthly glory: men might say, glory has been single in the past, but now it's married to
Till this time pomp was single, but now married glory greater than itself. Every day was better than the one
To one above itself. Each following day before until the last one was full of all the wonders seen
Became the next day's master, till the last before. One day the French, all clanking, all dressed in gold
Made former wonders its. To-day the French, like heathen gods, shone brighter than the English. The
25 All clinquant, all in gold, like heathen gods, next day, the British were dressed so richly that they made
Shone down the English; and, to-morrow, they Britain seem like India. Every man standing up looked like a
Made Britain India: every man that stood mine because they were covered in gold. Their short pages
Show'd like a mine. Their dwarfish pages were looked like gold-covered cherubs. The ladies, too, not used
As cherubins, all guilt: the madams too, to work, almost sweated to carry the beautiful things they
30 Not used to toil, did almost sweat to bear wore, and their effort was like makeup: it made them look
The pride upon them, that their very labour better. One day this display was said to be incomparable,
Was to them as a painting: now this masque but the next night it was made to look like the display of a
Was cried incomparable; and the ensuing night fool and a beggar. Of the two kings, equal in brightness, one
Made it a fool and beggar. The two kings, seemed better, then worse, at any moment. One looked
35 Equal in lustre, were now best, now worst, better at one time, but the other one was praised more.
As presence did present them; him in eye, When they were both present, people said they only saw
Still him in praise: and, being present both one. No onlooker dared criticize anything. When these 3 "Bevis" of Hampton was a
'Twas said they saw but one; and no discerner suns, as they were called, had their announcers challenge legendary English hero.
Durst wag his tongue in censure. When these suns-- the noblemen to fight, those nobles did better than you can
40 For so they phrase 'em--by their heralds challenged imagine. The old legend of Bevis 3 now seemed possible
The noble spirits to arms, they did perform and was believed.
Beyond thought's compass; that former fabulous story,
Being now seen possible enough, got credit,
That Bevis was believed.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
45 O, you go far. Oh, you're praising them highly.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
As I belong to worship and affect I swear by my reputation and love for honesty, the
In honour honesty, the tract of every thing description of everything that was done there couldn't do
Would by a good discourser lose some life, justice to it even if it were described by a good talker. 4 "All was royal," in the original text,
Which action's self was tongue to. All was royal; Things went perfectly. 4 Everything was done in good is a complicated metaphor. It means,
50 To the disposing of it nought rebell'd. order, and the people in charge did their job well. essentially, that each part of the
Order gave each thing view; the office did magnificent display went perfectly
and nothing went wrong to ruin the
Distinctly his full function. show. The displays were like kings
obeyed by their subjects, who didn't
rebel against them.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
Who did guide, Who was in charge? I mean, who was the one to organize
I mean, who set the body and the limbs this sport, like a mind in charge of the parts of a body 5 ? 5 In this metaphor of the "body",
55 Of this great sport together, as you guess? the person in charge of the displays is
compared to a mind that guides the
body. This metaphor has larger
implications for the play. Kings are
commonly compared to the "head" of
state, the one part who guides the
whole. Here, however, Cardinal
Wolsey takes over that role. The
cardinal, as we will see, constantly

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oversteps his authority and influences

the king.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
One, certes, that promises no element Someone you wouldn't expect to have any part in such
In such a business. business.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
I pray you, who, my lord? Tell me, who, my lord?

NORFOLK NORFOLK
All this was order'd by the good discretion This was organized wisely by the honorable Cardinal of
60 Of the right reverend Cardinal of York. York.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
The devil speed him! no man's pie is freed May the devil take good care of him! He's got his ambitious
From his ambitious finger. What had he finger in everyone's pie. What did he have to do with this
To do in these fierce vanities? I wonder foolish fighting? I'm surprised that such a lump of fat can
That such a keech can with his very bulk block the rays of the kind sun with his bulk and keep them
65 Take up the rays o' the beneficial sun from the earth.
And keep it from the earth.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Surely, sir, Surely, sir, there's something in him that makes him want
There's in him stuff that puts him to these ends; these things. He doesn't have the help of being from a good
For, being not propp'd by ancestry, whose grace family, which guarantees succession to power, and he isn't
70 Chalks successors their way, nor call'd upon being rewarded for brave deeds done for the king. Nor does
For high feats done to the crown; neither allied he have powerful allies. But, like a spider, spinning his own
For eminent assistants; but, spider-like, web for himself, he makes us notice him. He clears a path
Out of his self-drawing web, he gives us note, for himself with his own worth. It's a gift to him from God,
The force of his own merit makes his way which buys him a place next to the king.
75 A gift that heaven gives for him, which buys
A place next to the king.

ABERGAVENNY ABERGAVENNY
I cannot tell I can't tell what God has given him. Let some wiser man
What heaven hath given him,--let some graver eye look into that. But I can see his pride showing in every part
Pierce into that; but I can see his pride of him. Where did he get that, if not from hell? The devil
80 Peep through each part of him: whence has he that, doesn't like to give anything away, or he's already given
If not from hell? the devil is a niggard, away everything, so the Cardinal begins a new hell inside
Or has given all before, and he begins himself.
A new hell in himself.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
Why the devil, Why the devil, when this French expedition took place, did
85 Upon this French going out, took he upon him, he take it upon himself to decide who would go with the
Without the privity o' the king, to appoint king without asking him? He made up the list of all the
Who should attend on him? He makes up the file nobles. Mostly it was those he meant to get a lot of money
Of all the gentry; for the most part such out of without giving them credit for it. He sends for the
To whom as great a charge as little honour money by writing a letter, without consulting the king's
90 He meant to lay upon: and his own letter, honorable councilors.
The honourable board of council out,
Must fetch him in the papers.

ABERGAVENNY ABERGAVENNY
I do know I know relatives of mine, at least three, who because of this
Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that have are in so much financial trouble that they'll never get their
95 By this so sickened their estates, that never finances back to where they were before.
They shall abound as formerly.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
O, many Oh, many people have broken their backs paying for
Have broke their backs with laying manors on 'em mansions for the court to stay in on this great journey. What
For this great journey. What did this vanity did this foolish man do, except help this bad thing happen?
100 But minister communication of
A most poor issue?

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Grievingly I think, Sadly, I think the peace between the French and us isn't
The peace between the French and us not values worth the money that was paid to make it.
The cost that did conclude it.

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BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
105 Every man, Every man, after the horrible storm 6 that followed the 6 This play is based largely on
After the hideous storm that follow'd, was peace-making, was a prophet. Without thinking, they broke Raphael Holinshed's Chronicles,
A thing inspired; and, not consulting, broke into a prophecy about general things: that this storm, which does mention a terrible storm
Into a general prophecy; That this tempest, dashing against the clothes of the people making this on June 18th, 1520.
Dashing the garment of this peace, aboded peace, meant that it would be broken soon.
110 The sudden breach on't.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Which is budded out; And the peace has been broken. Because France has broken
For France hath flaw'd the league, and hath attach'd the treaty and has seized our merchants' goods at
Our merchants' goods at Bourdeaux. Bordeaux.

ABERGAVENNY ABERGAVENNY
Is it therefore Is that why the ambassador has been silenced?
115 The ambassador is silenced?

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Marry, is't. Yes, it is.

ABERGAVENNY ABERGAVENNY
A proper title of a peace; and purchased So we have just a title deed 7 for a peace, and bought at 7 The "title" or title deed
At a superfluous rate! too high a price! mentioned here is a legal document
that proves one's ownership of
property.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
Why, all this business The respected cardinal carried out all this business.
120 Our reverend cardinal carried.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Like it your grace, Your grace, the government notices the private quarrel
The state takes notice of the private difference between you and the cardinal. I advise you--this comes
Betwixt you and the cardinal. I advise you-- from a heart that wishes you honor and safety--to consider
And take it from a heart that wishes towards you both the cardinal's ill-will and his power. Consider
125 Honour and plenteous safety--that you read furthermore that he has all the minions he needs to do
The cardinal's malice and his potency what he wants out of his powerful hatred. You know his
Together; to consider further that vengeful nature and I know his sword has a sharp edge. It's
What his high hatred would effect wants not long and they say it reaches far and, where it doesn't reach, 8 The "rock" refers to the Cardinal
A minister in his power. You know his nature, he throws it. Remember my advice. You'll find that it's Wolsey, who is being compared to a
130 That he's revengeful, and I know his sword good. See, the rock 8 I advise you to avoid is coming now. sharp rock that could damage a ship.
Hath a sharp edge: it's long and, 't may be said,
It reaches far, and where 'twill not extend,
Thither he darts it. Bosom up my counsel,
You'll find it wholesome. Lo, where comes that rock
135 That I advise your shunning.

Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, the purse borne before him, certain of the CARDINAL WOLSEY enters with a purse 9 carried in front of
Guard, and two Secretaries with papers. CARDINAL WOLSEY in his him, some members of the Guard, and two secretaries 9 Cardinal Wolsey's "purse" is a
passage fixeth his eye on BUCKINGHAM, and BUCKINGHAM on him, carrying papers. Passing by, CARDINAL WOLSEY glares at very important bag, as it carries the
both full of disdain BUCKINGHAM, and BUCKINGHAM glares back. Great Seal of England. This device,
which makes an impression in wax, is
used to mark the king's official
approval on documents. Wolsey's
responsibility for the seal symbolizes
his role as chancellor (essentially,
chief adviser) to the king.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

The Duke of Buckingham's surveyor, ha? The Duke of Buckingham's surveyor 10 ! Where's his 10 When asking about Buckingham's
Where's his examination? paperwork? "surveyor," Wolsey refers to the man
who oversees Buckingham's estates,
his cousin Charles. Wolsey has been
using Buckingham's cousin to get
information with which he can
incriminate Buckingham.

FIRST SECRETARY FIRST SECRETARY

Here, so please you. Here, sir.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Is he in person ready? Is he ready to appear in person?

FIRST SECRETARY FIRST SECRETARY

140 Ay, please your grace. Yes, your grace.

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CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Well, we shall then know more; and Buckingham Well, I'll find out more. Buckingham won't look this
Shall lessen this big look. confident soon.

Exeunt CARDINAL WOLSEY and his Train CARDINAL WOLSEY and his followers exit.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
This butcher's cur is venom-mouth'd, and I This dog of a butcher's son 11 has a poisonous bite, and I 11 Wolsey was the son of a butcher.
145 Have not the power to muzzle him; therefore best can't muzzle him. So it's better not to wake him when he's Buckingham's use of "butcher's cur"
Not wake him in his slumber. A beggar's book sleeping. A beggar's pocket book is worth more than the as an insult shows that he hates
Outworths a noble's blood. blood of a nobleman. Wolsey partly because he is not from
an aristocratic background.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
What, are you chafed? Are you angry? Ask God to make you patient. That's what
Ask God for temperance; that's the appliance only you need to be cured of this disease of anger.
150 Which your disease requires.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
I read in's looks I saw from how he looked at me that he has a grudge
Matter against me; and his eye reviled against me. His eye seemed to be disgusted by me, thinking
Me, as his abject object: at this instant I was a worthless thing to look at. Right now he's plotting
He bores me with some trick: he's gone to the king; against me. He's gone to the king. I'll follow and glare at
155 I'll follow and outstare him. him.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Stay, my lord, Wait, my lord, and think about what you're doing. You have
And let your reason with your choler question to go slowly at first when climbing steep hills. Anger is like a
What 'tis you go about: to climb steep hills horse eager to run. Allowed to do what he wants, he tires
Requires slow pace at first: anger is like himself out. Not a single man in England can give me as
160 A full-hot horse, who being allow'd his way, good advice as you can. Act the same way toward yourself
Self-mettle tires him. Not a man in England as you would to a friend, and give yourself good advice.
Can advise me like you: be to yourself
As you would to your friend.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
I'll to the king; I'll go to the king. I'll use my honorable position to insult
165 And from a mouth of honour quite cry down this arrogant man from Ipswich 12 . If I don't succeed, it 12 Wolsey is the fellow from
This Ipswich fellow's insolence; or proclaim shows that people of different classes are equal. "Ipswich." Ipswich is a small town, so
There's difference in no persons. this is an insult implying he's a
country bumpkin.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Be advised; Think about this. Don't hurt yourself by plotting against
Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot your enemy. By running too quickly towards what you run
170 That it do singe yourself: we may outrun, toward, you can miss it and lose. Don't you know that a fire
By violent swiftness, that which we run at, that makes a pot boil over seems to increase its volume but
And lose by over-running. Know you not, actually wastes it? Think about this. Again, there is no
The fire that mounts the liquor til run o'er, English man who could give you better advice than you
In seeming to augment it wastes it? Be advised: could give yourself, if you would just be reasonable and
175 I say again, there is no English soul stop being angry, or at least be less angry.
More stronger to direct you than yourself,
If with the sap of reason you would quench,
Or but allay, the fire of passion.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
Sir, Sir, I'm thankful to you, and I'll do what you say. But I know
180 I am thankful to you; and I'll go along this arrogant man, whom I despise not because of hot- 13 In the original text, Buckingham
By your prescription: but this top-proud fellow, headed anger 13 but for good reason, to be corrupt and a associates anger with a "flow of gall."
Whom from the flow of gall I name not but traitor. I know this from secret sources, with proof as clear In Shakespeare's day, the four humors
From sincere motions, by intelligence, as streams in July, when you can see every stone at the (black bile, yellow bile, phlegm, and
blood) corresponded to four
And proofs as clear as founts in July when bottom. temperaments (melancholic, choleric,
185 We see each grain of gravel, I do know phlegmatic, and sanguine). The gall
To be corrupt and treasonous. bladder was associated with the
"choleric" temperament, which is
characterized by anger and is linked to
the element of fire.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Say not 'treasonous.' Don't say "a traitor."

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
To the king I'll say't; and make my vouch as strong I'll say it to the king. And I'll swear it with a promise as
As shore of rock. Attend. This holy fox, strong as a rock. Listen. This holy man is like a fox, or a wolf,
190 Or wolf, or both,-- for he is equal ravenous or both: he is as greedy as he is sly and he's as willing to do
As he is subtle, and as prone to mischief evil as he is able to do it. His mind and his social position

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As able to perform't; his mind and place infect each other. He suggested this expensive alliance to
Infecting one another, yea, reciprocally-- the king only so he could show off as much in France as he
Only to show his pomp as well in France does here at home. The meeting swallowed so much
195 As here at home, suggests the king our master money, and like a glass it broke as it was being made.
To this last costly treaty, the interview,
That swallow'd so much treasure, and like a glass
Did break i' the rinsing.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Faith, and so it did. That's true, it did.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
200 Pray, give me favour, sir. This cunning cardinal Listen, sir. This sly cardinal drew up the treaty as he
The articles o' the combination drew pleased. It was signed when he said "Let it be this way." It's
As himself pleased; and they were ratified as useful as giving a crutch to a dead person. But our ruler
As he cried 'Thus let be': to as much end the cardinal did it anyway, and that's good. Because honest
As give a crutch to the dead: but our count-cardinal Wolsey, who never makes mistakes, did it. Then this
205 Has done this, and 'tis well; for worthy Wolsey, happened (which looks a lot like treason, as much as a dog 14 Charles V was elected Holy
Who cannot err, he did it. Now this follows,-- looks like its mother). Charles 14 the emperor, claiming he Roman Emperor in 1519, at which
Which, as I take it, is a kind of puppy wanted to see the queen his aunt 15 (that was his story, but time he was also ruler of Spain and
To the old dam, treason,--Charles the emperor, he came to whisper to Wolsey) visited. He was afraid that the Habsburg Netherlands. In 1520
(the year in which this scene is set),
Under pretence to see the queen his aunt-- the meeting between England and France might do him the Holy Roman Empire covered much
210 For 'twas indeed his colour, but he came harm if they became allies. He talked privately to our of modern-day central Europe.
To whisper Wolsey,--here makes visitation: cardinal. I think (and it's something I do well) that the
15 Catherine of Aragon (in this play,
His fears were, that the interview betwixt emperor paid before he agreed to anything. And then his
England and France might, through their amity, request was granted before he asked. But anyway, when spelled "Katharine"), Henry VIII's first
queen, was Charles V's aunt.
Breed him some prejudice; for from this league the path had been cleared with bribes, the emperor asked
215 Peep'd harms that menaced him: he privily the cardinal to change the king's actions and break this
Deals with our cardinal; and, as I trow,-- alliance. The king should know, and I'll tell him, that the
Which I do well; for I am sure the emperor cardinal buys and sells his honor whenever he wants, for his
Paid ere he promised; whereby his suit was granted own advantage.
Ere it was ask'd; but when the way was made,
220 And paved with gold, the emperor thus desired,
That he would please to alter the king's course,
And break the foresaid peace. Let the king know,
As soon he shall by me, that thus the cardinal
Does buy and sell his honour as he pleases,
225 And for his own advantage.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
I am sorry I am sorry to hear this about him, and I hope there's a
To hear this of him; and could wish he were mistake in what you say about him.
Something mistaken in't.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
No, not a syllable: No, not at all. I describe him exactly as he is, and I'll prove it.
230 I do pronounce him in that very shape
He shall appear in proof.

Enter BRANDON, a Sergeant-at-arms before him, and two or three of BRANDON enters following a SERGEANT and two or three
the Guard members of the Guard.

BRANDON BRANDON
Your office, sergeant; execute it. Do your job, sergeant.

SERGEANT SERGEANT
Sir, My lord the Duke of Buckingham, Earl of Hereford, Stafford,
235 My lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl and Northampton, sir, I arrest you for high treason in the
Of Hereford, Stafford, and Northampton, I name of our king.
Arrest thee of high treason, in the name
Of our most sovereign king.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
Lo, you, my lord, See, my lord, I've been caught in his trap! I'll die from his
240 The net has fall'n upon me! I shall perish plots.
Under device and practise.

BRANDON BRANDON
I am sorry I'm sorry to see you captured and to see this happen. The
To see you ta'en from liberty, to look on king wants you to go to the Tower 16 . 16 The Tower of London is a palace
The business present: 'tis his highness' pleasure and fortress that has been used, most
245 You shall to the Tower. famously, as a prison.

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BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
It will help me nothing It won't help me to say I'm innocent. Even the most
To plead mine innocence; for that dye is on me innocent part of me will be made to seem guilty. May God's
Which makes my whitest part black. The will of heaven will be done in this and all things! I obey. Oh, lord
Be done in this and all things! I obey. Abergavenny, goodbye!
250 O my Lord Abergavenny, fare you well!

BRANDON BRANDON
Nay, he must bear you company. No, he must go with you.
[To ABERGAVENNY]
The king is pleased you shall to the Tower, till you [To ABERGAVENNY] The king wants you to go the Tower
know until he decides what will happen to you.
255 How he determines further.

ABERGAVENNY ABERGAVENNY
As the duke said, As the duke said, may God's will be done and may I do what
The will of heaven be done, and the king's pleasure the king wants!
By me obey'd!

BRANDON BRANDON
260 Here is a warrant from Here is a warrant from the king to arrest Lord Montacute,
The king to attach Lord Montacute; and the bodies the duke's confessor 17 , John de la Car, and a certain 17 In this context, a "confessor" is
Of the duke's confessor, John de la Car, Gilbert Perk, his chancellor 18 — the private spiritual adviser of a
One Gilbert Perk, his chancellor-- nobleman. More generally, a
confessor is a priest who hears a
Christian's confession of his or her
sins and offers forgiveness as the
visible, external sign of God's mercy.

18 Just as Wolsey is Lord Chancellor

to the king, and is therefore his chief
adviser, Gilbert Perk is Buckingham's
"chancellor" or adviser.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
So, so; All right. That's the end of his plot. I hope no more people
265 These are the limbs o' the plot: no more, I hope. will be arrested.

BRANDON BRANDON
A monk o' the Chartreux. A Chartreux monk.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
O, Nicholas Hopkins? Oh no, Nicholas Hopkins 19 ? 19 "Nicholas Hopkins" was a monk
and spiritual adviser to Buckingham.
He is said to have prophesied that
Buckingham would ascend to the
throne.

BRANDON BRANDON
He. That's him.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
My surveyor is false; the o'er-great cardinal My surveyor is a liar. The overly-powerful cardinal gave him
270 Hath show'd him gold; my life is spann'd already: gold. My life is already over. I am the shadow of poor
I am the shadow of poor Buckingham, Buckingham, and even now clouds cover me and darken
Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on, the bright sun of my life. Goodbye, my lord.
By darkening my clear sun. My lord, farewell.

Exeunt They exit.

Act 1, Scene 2
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Cornets. Enter KING HENRY VIII, leaning on CARDINAL WOLSEY's Trumpets sound. KING HENRY VIII enters, leaning on
shoulder, the Nobles, and LOVELL; CARDINAL WOLSEY places himself CARDINAL WOLSEY's shoulder. Nobles and LOVELL enter
under KING HENRY VIII's feet on his right side with them. CARDINAL WOLSEY sits below KING HENRY VIII,
to his right.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

My life itself, and the best heart of it, I thank you with all my heart and my life itself for this great
Thanks you for this great care: I stood i' the level thing you've done. I was the target of a plot that was about

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Of a full-charged confederacy, and give thanks to be carried out and I thank you for stopping it. Have
To you that choked it. Let be call'd before us Buckingham's servant called before me. I'll hear him speak
5 That gentleman of Buckingham's; in person for himself and he'll tell every detail of his master's treason
I'll hear him his confessions justify; again.
And point by point the treasons of his master
He shall again relate.

A noise within, crying 'Room for the Queen!' Enter QUEEN There's a noise inside of people shouting, "Make room for
KATHARINE, ushered by NORFOLK, and SUFFOLK: she kneels. KING the Queen!" QUEEN KATHARINE enters, accompanied
HENRY VIII riseth from his state, takes her up, kisses and placeth her by NORFOLK and SUFFOLK. She kneels. KING HENRY VIII
by him rises from his throne, picks her up, kisses her and sits her
next to him.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Nay, we must longer kneel: I am a suitor. No, I have to kneel longer. I have a request.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

10 Arise, and take place by us: half your suit Get up and sit next to me. Don't tell me half your request,
Never name to us; you have half our power: since you have half my power. I grant you the other half
The other moiety, ere you ask, is given; before you ask. Tell me your request and grant it yourself.
Repeat your will and take it.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Thank your majesty. Thank you, your majesty. My request is that you love
15 That you would love yourself, and in that love yourself and, by doing that, that you not neglect your honor
Not unconsider'd leave your honour, nor or the dignity of your position.
The dignity of your office, is the point
Of my petition.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Lady mine, proceed. Go on, my lady.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

20 I am solicited, not by a few, I am told by many people, important ones, that your
And those of true condition, that your subjects subjects are unhappy. Taxes 1 have been imposed on 1 The "commissions" or taxes
Are in great grievance: there have been commissions them that make them disloyal. So, although, my good lord mentioned here were devised by
Sent down among 'em, which hath flaw'd the heart cardinal, they reproach you bitterly for convincing the king Wolsey to pay for England's war with
Of all their loyalties: wherein, although, to order these taxes, not even the king our master--may France. These taxes did not come until
1525, however, making them out of
25 My good lord cardinal, they vent reproaches God protect his honor!--escapes their rude criticism. The place here. The queen's role in
Most bitterly on you, as putter on language they use is too strong for loyal subjects and arguing against them was also
Of these exactions, yet the king our master-- almost turns into a loud rebellion. invented for this play.
Whose honour heaven shield from soil!--even he
escapes not
30 Language unmannerly, yea, such which breaks
The sides of loyalty, and almost appears
In loud rebellion.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Not almost appears, It doesn't almost turn into that, it does. Because of these
It doth appear; for, upon these taxations, taxes, the makers of clothing can't afford to pay all those
35 The clothiers all, not able to maintain working for them and have dismissed the spinners, wool-
The many to them longing, have put off combers, wool-cleaners, and weavers who don't have any
The spinsters, carders, fullers, weavers, who, other skills and who have become desperate from hunger
Unfit for other life, compell'd by hunger and poverty. They're in an uproar, daring anyone to resist
And lack of other means, in desperate manner them, and they're putting us in danger!
40 Daring the event to the teeth, are all in uproar,
And danger serves among then!

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Taxation! Taxes! On what? What taxes? My lord cardinal, you're being
Wherein? and what taxation? My lord cardinal, blamed too. Do you know about these taxes?
You that are blamed for it alike with us,
45 Know you of this taxation?

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Please you, sir, Sir, I know only a part of state business, and I am only the
I know but of a single part, in aught most important of the many people in charge of this
Pertains to the state; and front but in that file business.
Where others tell steps with me.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

50 No, my lord, No, my lord, you don't know any more than anyone else.
You know no more than others; but you frame But you cause things to happen that can be known about.
Things that are known alike; which are not wholesome These things are bad for those who don't want to know

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To those which would not know them, and yet must about them but have to. These taxes my king wants to
Perforce be their acquaintance. These exactions, know about are very hard to bear. For the people trying to
55 Whereof my sovereign would have note, they are bear them it's like they're laborers breaking their backs to
Most pestilent to the bearing; and, to bear 'em, carry their loads. They say the taxes were your idea. Or
The back is sacrifice to the load. They say perhaps you're being unfairly talked about.
They are devised by you; or else you suffer
Too hard an exclamation.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

60 Still exaction! Taxes again! What is this? Tell me, what are these taxes?
The nature of it? in what kind, let's know,
Is this exaction?

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

I am much too venturous I'm worried about boring you, but I take courage from your
In tempting of your patience; but am bolden'd promise to forgive me. The subjects are suffering from taxes
65 Under your promised pardon. The subjects' grief that take a sixth of each person's wealth, to be collected
Comes through commissions, which compel from each immediately. The excuse for this is said to be your wars in
The sixth part of his substance, to be levied France. That makes people say bold things. People refuse to
Without delay; and the pretence for this do their duties and no longer feel loyalty. Instead of praying
Is named, your wars in France: this makes bold mouths: for you, they curse you. And now their obedience has been
70 Tongues spit their duties out, and cold hearts freeze overpowered by their anger. I would like you to think about
Allegiance in them; their curses now this, your highness, because there's nothing more
Live where their prayers did: and it's come to pass, important.
This tractable obedience is a slave
To each incensed will. I would your highness
75 Would give it quick consideration, for
There is no primer business.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

By my life, I swear by my life, this is not what I wanted.
This is against our pleasure.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

And for me, As for me, I haven't been any more responsible for it than a
80 I have no further gone in this than by single man giving his opinion can be. And I only approved it
A single voice; and that not pass'd me but because wise judges agreed it was a good idea. If I have
By learned approbation of the judges. If I am been betrayed by ignorant people who don't know me or
Traduced by ignorant tongues, which neither know my good qualities but insist on reporting what I do, let me
My faculties nor person, yet will be say that that's the fate of important people and the rough
85 The chronicles of my doing, let me say obstacle that virtue has to face. We must do what is
'Tis but the fate of place, and the rough brake necessary to stop evil-minded critics. These people are like
That virtue must go through. We must not stint hungry sharks following a newly-loaded ship, who can do
Our necessary actions, in the fear nothing but wish the boat would sink and provide them
To cope malicious censurers; which ever, with food. Weak interpreters say that the good things we do
90 As ravenous fishes, do a vessel follow are either not our doing or just not true. What's worse, just
That is new-trimm'd, but benefit no further as often, they choose something unpleasant about us and
Than vainly longing. What we oft do best, say it's our greatest act. If we stand still, fearing that we'll be
By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is mocked or complained about for moving, we'll grow roots
Not ours, or not allow'd; what worst, as oft, where we sit and become silent trees, or just sit like
95 Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up powerful statues.
For our best act. If we shall stand still,
In fear our motion will be mock'd or carp'd at,
We should take root here where we sit, or sit
State-statues only.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

100 Things done well, Things done well and carefully give you nothing to fear. You
And with a care, exempt themselves from fear; should fear the consequences of things that have never
Things done without example, in their issue been done before. Do you have a precedent for this tax? I
Are to be fear'd. Have you a precedent don't think you have one. We must not break our own laws
Of this commission? I believe, not any. to make our subjects do what we want. A sixth of each one's
105 We must not rend our subjects from our laws, property? That's a terrible contribution! It's like we're 2 In referring to "every tree," the
And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each? taking the top, the bark, and part of the stump from every king picks up on Wolsey's last
A trembling contribution! Why, we take tree 2 ! And, although we leave each one with a root once metaphor in the previous speech,
From every tree lop, bark, and part o' the timber; it's been hacked, the air will dry its sap. Send a letter to which compares people to trees.
Wolsey argues that they must make
And, though we leave it with a root, thus hack'd, every county where this tax was taken with a free pardon decisions despite the fear of criticism,
110 The air will drink the sap. To every county for every man who refused to pay this tax. Do it, I trust you or they'd be no better than strong but
Where this is question'd send our letters, with to take care of it. silent trees. Henry compares his
Free pardon to each man that has denied subjects to trees, who have been cut
down and destroyed by the tax.
The force of this commission: pray, look to't;
I put it to your care.

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CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

115 A word with you. I would like a word with you.
[To the Secretary]
Let there be letters writ to every shire, [To the SECRETARY] Let there be letters written to every
Of the king's grace and pardon. The grieved commons part of the country announcing the king's kindness and
120 Hardly conceive of me; let it be noised pardon. The unhappy commoners think badly of me. Let it
That through our intercession this revokement be said that I asked for this retraction and pardon. Then I
And pardon comes: I shall anon advise you will tell you what to do next.
Further in the proceeding.

Exit Secretary. Enter Surveyor The SECRETARY exits. The SURVEYOR 3 enters.
3 Remember that Buckingham's
surveyor is the man in charge of
running his large estate (all the land
and property he owns).

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

I am sorry that the Duke of Buckingham I'm sorry you're unhappy with the Duke of Buckingham.
125 Is run in your displeasure.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

It grieves many: Many people are. The gentleman is well-read and a very
The gentleman is learn'd, and a most rare speaker; good speaker. No one has better natural qualities. He's
To nature none more bound; his training such, educated enough to teach great teachers all by himself
That he may furnish and instruct great teachers, without asking for help. But see, when these noble qualities
130 And never seek for aid out of himself. Yet see, are not well put together in a man and the mind is
When these so noble benefits shall prove corrupted, they turn into bad qualities, ten times uglier
Not well disposed, the mind growing once corrupt, than they were beautiful. This perfect man was thought to
They turn to vicious forms, ten times more ugly be a wonder of nature. He could make an hour of speaking
Than ever they were fair. This man so complete, seem like a minute because we were listening in such
135 Who was enroll'd 'mongst wonders, and when we, fascination. He, my lady, has put all the energy that once
Almost with ravish'd listening, could not find made him good into monstrous habits and has become as
His hour of speech a minute; he, my lady, evil as if he had been smeared with hell's ashes. Sit next to
Hath into monstrous habits put the graces me and you will hear things that will make an honorable
That once were his, and is become as black person sad. This was his trusted servant. Tell him to repeat
140 As if besmear'd in hell. Sit by us; you shall hear-- the things he told us before about Buckingham's actions. I
This was his gentleman in trust--of him can't feel too little or hear too much about them.
Things to strike honour sad. Bid him recount
The fore-recited practises; whereof
We cannot feel too little, hear too much.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

145 Stand forth, and with bold spirit relate what you, Stand up and bravely tell what you observed about the
Most like a careful subject, have collected Duke of Buckingham, like a good subject should.
Out of the Duke of Buckingham.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Speak freely. Speak freely.

SURVEYOR SURVEYOR
First, it was usual with him, every day First, it was a habit with him, every day he would infect his
150 It would infect his speech, that if the king speech by saying it, that if the king died without an heir, he
Should without issue die, he'll carry it so would take power himself. I've heard him say these very
To make the sceptre his: these very words words to his son-in-law, Lord Abergavenny, and he
I've heard him utter to his son-in-law, promised him he would take revenge on the cardinal.
Lord Abergavenny; to whom by oath he menaced
155 Revenge upon the cardinal.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Please your highness, note Please, your highness, pay attention to this dangerous idea.
This dangerous conception in this point. He means you harm. He wants to do evil to you, and his
Not friended by his wish, to your high person anger stretches beyond you, to your friends.
His will is most malignant; and it stretches
160 Beyond you, to your friends.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

My learn'd lord cardinal, Wise lord cardinal, speak charitably.
Deliver all with charity.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Speak on: Go on. How did he justify his claim to the crown when I die?
How grounded he his title to the crown, Have you heard him say anything about that point at any
165 Upon our fail? to this point hast thou heard him time?
At any time speak aught?

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SURVEYOR SURVEYOR
He was brought to this He thought of this because of Nicholas Hopkins's
By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Hopkins. meaningless prophecy.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

What was that Hopkins? Who was Hopkins?

SURVEYOR SURVEYOR
170 Sir, a Chartreux friar, A Chartreux friar, sir, his confessor 4 , who told him every 4 Remember that Buckingham's
His confessor, who fed him every minute minute he'd be king. "confessor" is a priest serving as his
With words of sovereignty. spiritual adviser.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

How know'st thou this? How do you know this?

SURVEYOR SURVEYOR
Not long before your highness sped to France, Not long before you went to France, your Highness, the
175 The duke being at the Rose, within the parish duke was at the Rose in the town of Saint Lawrence
Saint Lawrence Poultney, did of me demand Poultney. He asked me what the Londoners were saying
What was the speech among the Londoners about the French journey. I replied that men were afraid the
Concerning the French journey: I replied, French would be treacherous and harm the king. Then the
Men fear'd the French would prove perfidious, duke said that this was indeed what people were afraid of,
180 To the king's danger. Presently the duke and that he thought it would prove the truth of some words
Said, 'twas the fear, indeed; and that he doubted spoken by a holy monk. "This monk often," he said, "has
'Twould prove the verity of certain words written to me asking me to allow him to meet with John de
Spoke by a holy monk; 'that oft,' says he, la Car, my priest, for an hour to hear about an important
'Hath sent to me, wishing me to permit matter. Under the safety of confession he said that my
185 John de la Car, my chaplain, a choice hour priest should repeat what he said to no one except me. He
To hear from him a matter of some moment: hesitantly said this: tell the duke that neither the king nor
Whom after under the confession's seal his heirs will prosper. Tell him to try to gain the people's
He solemnly had sworn, that what he spoke affection. The duke will govern England."
My chaplain to no creature living, but
190 To me, should utter, with demure confidence
This pausingly ensued: neither the king nor's heirs,
Tell you the duke, shall prosper: bid him strive
To gain the love o' the commonalty: the duke
Shall govern England.'

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

195 If I know you well, If I recognize you, you were the duke's surveyor and lost
You were the duke's surveyor, and lost your office your job because of his tenants' complaints. Take care you
On the complaint o' the tenants: take good heed don't accuse a noble person out of anger and damn your
You charge not in your spleen a noble person soul, which is even nobler. Watch out, I beg you.
And spoil your nobler soul: I say, take heed;
200 Yes, heartily beseech you.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Let him on. Let him go on. Come forward.
Go forward.

SURVEYOR SURVEYOR
On my soul, I'll speak but truth. I swear on my soul, I'll tell the truth. I told my lord the duke
I told my lord the duke, by the devil's illusions that the monk might have been deceived by the devil's
205 The monk might be deceived; and that 'twas dangerous tricks and that it was dangerous for him to think about this
for him so much because it would make him start thinking about a
To ruminate on this so far, until plot. This was likely to happen if he believed it. He
It forged him some design, which, being believed, answered, "Shh, it can't do me any harm." He added that if
It was much like to do: he answer'd, 'Tush, the king had died of his last sickness the cardinal's and Sir
210 It can do me no damage;' adding further, Thomas Lovell's heads would have come off.
That, had the king in his last sickness fail'd,
The cardinal's and Sir Thomas Lovell's heads
Should have gone off.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Ha! what, so rank? Ah ha! What! He said this so openly? Aha! That man is trouble. Can
215 There's mischief in this man: canst thou say further? you say anything more?

SURVEYOR SURVEYOR
I can, my liege. I can, my king.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Proceed. Go on.

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SURVEYOR SURVEYOR
Being at Greenwich, At Greenwich, when you had scolded the duke about Sir
After your highness had reproved the duke William Blomer--
220 About Sir William Blomer,--

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

I remember I remember that. He was my servant and the duke hired
Of such a time: being my sworn servant, him. But go on, what happened then?
The duke retain'd him his. But on; what hence?

SURVEYOR SURVEYOR
'If,' quoth he, 'I for this had been committed, He said, "If I had been imprisoned for this in the Tower, as I
225 As, to the Tower, I thought, I would have play'd thought I might be, I would have done what my father 5 Henry Stafford, the 2nd Duke of
The part my father meant to act upon meant to do to the usurper Richard 5 . When the king was Buckingham, led an unsuccessful
The usurper Richard; who, being at Salisbury, at Salisbury my father asked to be brought into his rebellion against King Richard III. He
Made suit to come in's presence; which if granted, presence. If this had been allowed, he would have stabbed led this rebellion in the name of Henry
Tudor, (who would become Henry VII),
As he made semblance of his duty, would him as he pretended to kiss his hand. the father of Henry VIII. Ultimately,
230 Have put his knife to him.' Stafford was executed for treason.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

A giant traitor! What a giant traitor!

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Now, madam, may his highness live in freedom, Now, ma'am, can the king live safely if this man is not in
and this man out of prison? jail?

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

God mend all! May God make all this better!

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

235 There's something more would out of thee; what say'st? There's something more you want to say. What is it?

SURVEYOR SURVEYOR
After 'the duke his father,' with 'the knife,' After he said these things about "the duke his father" and
He stretch'd him, and, with one hand on his dagger, "the knife," he stretched himself out and, with one hand on
Another spread on's breast, mounting his eyes his dagger and another on his chest, he rolled his eyes and
He did discharge a horrible oath; whose tenor let out a horrible curse. The gist of it was that, if he were
240 Was,--were he evil used, he would outgo badly treated, he would do so much better than his father:
His father by as much as a performance as if he were going to do what his father only sort of wished
Does an irresolute purpose. he could do.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

There's his period, That's what he wants, to stab me. He has been arrested.
To sheathe his knife in us. He is attach'd; Call him to trial at once. If he can find any mercy for himself
245 Call him to present trial: if he may in the law, it's his. If not, he won't get any from me. I swear
Find mercy in the law, 'tis his: if none, by day and night, he's the worst of traitors.
Let him not seek 't of us: by day and night,
He's traitor to the height.

Exeunt They exit.

Act 1, Scene 3
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter Chamberlain and SANDS Lords CHAMBERLAIN and SANDS enter.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Is't possible the spells of France should juggle Is it possible that France could enchant men to do such
Men into such strange mysteries? strange things?

SANDS SANDS
New customs, New fashions are being followed, however ridiculous or
Though they be never so ridiculous, even unmanly they are.
5 Nay, let 'em be unmanly, yet are follow'd.

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CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
As far as I see, all the good our English As far as I can see, the only good thing our Englishmen got
Have got by the late voyage is but merely from the recent voyage was a few new facial expressions.
A fit or two o' the face; but they are shrewd ones; But they're good ones. When they put on those expressions,
For when they hold 'em, you would swear directly you would swear their noses had been counsellors to kings 1 Pepin and Clotharius were kings
10 Their very noses had been counsellors Pepin or Clotharius 1 because they look so dignified. of the Franks between 500 and 800
To Pepin or Clotharius, they keep state so. AD. In choosing these early kings as
reference points, Chamberlain may be
implying that the new fashions at
court are barbaric.

SANDS SANDS
They have all new legs, and lame ones: one would take They have new ways of walking, and they seem lame. You
it, would think if you had never seen them walk like that
That never saw 'em pace before, the spavin before that they had leg diseases.
15 Or springhalt reign'd among 'em.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Death! my lord, For the love of God! My lord, their clothes look like pagan
Their clothes are after such a pagan cut too, clothes. They don't look like Christians anymore.
That, sure, they've worn out Christendom.

Enter LOVELL LOVELL enters.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
20 How now! Hello! What's the news, Sir Thomas Lovell?
What news, Sir Thomas Lovell?

LOVELL LOVELL
Faith, my lord, Truly, my lord, I haven't heard about anything except the
I hear of none, but the new proclamation new proclamation that's been put up on the gate to the
25 That's clapp'd upon the court-gate. court.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
What is't for? What is it for?

LOVELL LOVELL
The reformation of our travell'd gallants, To reform the returned travelers who fill the court with
That fill the court with quarrels, talk, and tailors. quarrels, talk, and tailors.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
I'm glad 'tis there: now I would pray our monsieurs I'm glad it's there. I want these courtiers who act French to
30 To think an English courtier may be wise, think that an English courtier can be wise even if he's never 2 At the time, the "Louvre"
And never see the Louvre. seen the Louvre 2 . mentioned here was a French palace.
Modern readers will know it better as
the famous art museum housing the
Mona Lisa and other treasures.

LOVELL LOVELL
They must either, The proclamation asks that they give up those scraps of
For so run the conditions, leave those remnants foolish cloth and feathers they got in France along with all
Of fool and feather that they got in France, their pointless knowledge, or rather ignorance, about them.
35 With all their honourable point of ignorance They must also give up fights and fireworks and insulting
Pertaining thereunto, as fights and fireworks, better men than they can ever be for not knowing about
Abusing better men than they can be, foreign things. They must completely renounce their
Out of a foreign wisdom, renouncing clean faithfulness to tennis and tall stockings, short pants that
The faith they have in tennis, and tall stockings, look like they have blisters on them, and that sort of thing
40 Short blister'd breeches, and those types of travel, they picked up from traveling, and act like honest men
And understand again like honest men; again. Or head back to their old playmates in France. There,
Or pack to their old playfellows: there, I take it, as I understand, the proclamation allows them "freely" to
They may, 'cum privilegio,' wear away indulge in the rest of their foolishness and be laughed at.
The lag end of their lewdness and be laugh'd at.

SANDS SANDS
45 'Tis time to give 'em physic, their diseases It's time to give them medicine 3 , as their diseases have 3 In Sands's metaphor, the
Are grown so catching. become so contagious. Englishmen who are putting on
French mannerisms must be cured of
foreign "diseases." England must put a
stop to this new love for French
fashion before it affects (or infects) the
whole country.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
What a loss our ladies The ladies will miss these neat pointless things!
Will have of these trim vanities!

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LOVELL LOVELL
Ay, marry, Yes, it's true. There will be sadness about that, lords. The
50 There will be woe indeed, lords: the sly whoresons clever bastards have figured out a quick trick to make ladies
Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies; go to bed with them. You can't compete with a French song 4 "Fiddle," here and in Sands's next
A French song and a fiddle has no fellow. and a fiddle 4 . line, is a double entendre. A fiddle is
an instrument, and may also refer to
sexual contact.

SANDS SANDS
The devil fiddle 'em! I am glad they are going, May the devil fiddle them! I am glad they are going because
For, sure, there's no converting of 'em: now it's impossible to change them. Now an honest country
55 An honest country lord, as I am, beaten noblemen like me, who couldn't compete, can bring my
A long time out of play, may bring his plainsong church songs and be listened to for an hour. And, by the
And have an hour of hearing; and, by'r lady, virgin Mary, it will be considered fashionable music too.
Held current music too.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Well said, Lord Sands; Well said, Lord Sands. You're still a wild young colt with all
60 Your colt's tooth is not cast yet. its teeth.

SANDS SANDS
No, my lord; Yes, my lord, and I'll keep at it while I still have a tooth in my
Nor shall not, while I have a stump. head.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Sir Thomas, Sir Thomas, where were you headed?
Whither were you a-going?

LOVELL LOVELL
65 To the cardinal's: To the cardinal's. You're a guest there too.
Your lordship is a guest too.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
O, 'tis true: Oh, it's true. Tonight he's having a dinner, a huge one, for
This night he makes a supper, and a great one, many lords and ladies. All the beauties in the kingdom will
To many lords and ladies; there will be be there, I assure you.
70 The beauty of this kingdom, I'll assure you.

LOVELL LOVELL
That churchman bears a bounteous mind indeed, That churchman 5 has a generous mind and gives as 5 The "churchman" in question is
A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us; freely as the land that grows food for us. His gifts go Cardinal Wolsey.
His dews fall every where. everywhere.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
No doubt he's noble; No doubt he's noble. Anyone who says otherwise has an
75 He had a black mouth that said other of him. evil mouth.

SANDS SANDS
He may, my lord; has wherewithal: in him They may, my lord, and probably do. Hoarding would be a
Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine: worse sin for him than a wrong belief. Men like him should
Men of his way should be most liberal; be generous. They are put on this earth as examples to the
They are set here for examples. rest.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
80 True, they are so: It's true, they are. But few men now are such great
But few now give so great ones. My barge stays; examples. My barge is waiting. You'll come with me. Come,
Your lordship shall along. Come, good Sir Thomas, Sir Thomas, or we'll be late. I wouldn't want to be, because
We shall be late else; which I would not be, I was asked (along with Sir Henry Guildford) to be a master
For I was spoke to, with Sir Henry Guildford of ceremonies.
85 This night to be comptrollers.

SANDS SANDS
I am your lordship's. I'm at your service.

Exeunt They exit.

Act 1, Scene 4
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

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Hautboys. A small table under a state for CARDINAL WOLSEY, a longer Oboes sound. There's a small table under a canopy for
table for the guests. Then enter ANNE and divers other Ladies and CARDINAL WOLSEY and a longer table for the guests. ANNE
Gentlemen as guests, at one door; at another door, enter GUILDFORD and some other Ladies and Gentlemen, his guests, enter at
one door. GUILDFORD enters at another.

GUILDFORD GUILDFORD
Ladies, a general welcome from his grace Ladies, the cardinal welcomes all of you. He dedicates
Salutes ye all; this night he dedicates tonight to happiness and you. No one here, he hopes, in
To fair content and you: none here, he hopes, this troop of nobles, has brought a single sorrow with her.
In all this noble bevy, has brought with her He wants everyone to be as happy as good company, good
5 One care abroad; he would have all as merry wine, and a good welcome can make good people. Oh, my
As, first, good company, good wine, good welcome, lord, you're late.
Can make good people. O, my lord, you're tardy:

Enter Chamberlain, SANDS, and LOVELL CHAMBERLAIN, SANDS, and LOVELL enter.

GUILDFORD GUILDFORD
The very thought of this fair company The thought of this beautiful company made me hurry.
Clapp'd wings to me.
10
CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
You are young, Sir Harry Guildford. You are young, Sir Harry Guildford.

SANDS SANDS
Sir Thomas Lovell, had the cardinal Sir Thomas Lovell, if the cardinal had even half my
But half my lay thoughts in him, some of these unreligious thoughts in him, some of these women would 1 The "running banquet" Sands
Should find a running banquet ere they rested, have a quick refreshment 1 before they rested that I think mentions serves as a sexual
15 I think would better please 'em: by my life, would please them more than this one. I swear by my life, innuendo--if Wolsey weren't holy, he'd
They are a sweet society of fair ones. they're a sweet band of beauties. have slept with several of his female
guests before the food was served.

LOVELL LOVELL
O, that your lordship were but now confessor Oh, if only you were the confessor of one or two of them!
To one or two of these!

SANDS SANDS
I would I were; I wish I were. I would give them an easy penance 2 . 2 After confessing your sins, you
20 They should find easy penance. were given a "penance" such as
saying a certain number of prayers to
make up for them. Sands means that
he would ask the women to perform
sexual acts.

LOVELL LOVELL
Faith, how easy? Really? How easy?

SANDS SANDS
As easy as a down-bed would afford it. As easy as a feather-bed would make it.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Sweet ladies, will it please you sit? Sir Harry, Sweet ladies, would you sit? Sir Harry, you seat this half of
Place you that side; I'll take the charge of this: them. I'll be in charge of the other half. The cardinal is
25 His grace is entering. Nay, you must not freeze; entering. No, don't freeze us: two women placed together
Two women placed together makes cold weather: makes cold weather. My Lord Sands, you'll keep them
My Lord Sands, you are one will keep 'em waking; awake. Please, sit between these ladies.
Pray, sit between these ladies.

SANDS SANDS
By my faith, Certainly, and thank you, your lordship. Please, sweet
30 And thank your lordship. By your leave, sweet ladies: ladies, if I talk a little wildly, forgive me. I inherited it from
If I chance to talk a little wild, forgive me; my father.
I had it from my father.

ANNE ANNE
Was he mad, sir? Was he crazy, sir?

SANDS SANDS
O, very mad, exceeding mad, in love too: Oh, very crazy, extremely crazy, including in love. But he 3 Madmen were considered likely to
35 But he would bite none; just as I do now, wouldn't bite 3 anyone. Like I do now, he would give you bite others. This provides an easy (if
He would kiss you twenty with a breath. twenty kisses in one breath. odd) pick-up line for Sands, moving
from mad men biting to lovers kissing.

Kisses her SANDS kisses ANNE.

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CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Well said, my lord. Well said my lord. So, now you're beautifully seated
So, now you're fairly seated. Gentlemen, between two beauties. Gentleman, you'll be punished if
40 The penance lies on you, if these fair ladies these beautiful ladies leave looking unhappy.
Pass away frowning.

SANDS SANDS
For my little cure, As for me, don't worry.
Let me alone.

Hautboys. Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, and takes his state Oboes sound. CARDINAL WOLSEY enters and takes his seat.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

45 You're welcome, my fair guests: that noble lady, You're welcome, my beautiful guests. Whatever noble lady
Or gentleman, that is not freely merry, or gentleman is not happy is not my friend. I drink to
Is not my friend: this, to confirm my welcome; confirm my welcome. Good health to you all.
And to you all, good health.

Drinks WOLSEY drinks.

SANDS SANDS
Your grace is noble: You're noble, your grace. Let me have a cup like that to hold
50 Let me have such a bowl may hold my thanks, my thanks and I'll drink it to save so much talking.
And save me so much talking.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

My Lord Sands, My Lord Sands, thank you. Entertain your neighbors.
I am beholding to you: cheer your neighbours. Ladies, you are not happy. Gentlemen, whose fault is this?
Ladies, you are not merry: gentlemen,
55 Whose fault is this?

SANDS SANDS
The red wine first must rise The red wine must first flush their beautiful faces, my lord.
In their fair cheeks, my lord; then we shall have 'em Then they'll talk so much we'll have to be silent.
Talk us to silence.

ANNE ANNE
You are a merry gamester, You're a cheerful player, my lord Sands.
60 My Lord Sands.

SANDS SANDS
Yes, if I make my play. Yes, if I have something to play. Here's to you, your
Here's to your ladyship: and pledge it, madam, ladyship. Drink to it, ma'am, because it's a toast to a thing 4 4 A "thing" was a common
For 'tis to such a thing,-- — euphemism for a man's sexual organ
in Shakespeare's time. Anne puns on
this suggestive meaning in the next
line.

ANNE ANNE
You cannot show me. You can't show me.

SANDS SANDS
65 I told your grace they would talk anon. I told you they would talk soon, your grace.

Drum and trumpet, chambers discharged Drums and trumpets play and cannons go off.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

What's that? What's that?

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Look out there, some of ye. Some of you go look outside.

Exit Servant A SERVANT exits.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

70 What warlike voice, What warlike noise was that, and what was it for? No, don't
And to what end is this? Nay, ladies, fear not; be afraid, ladies. The laws of war will protect you.
By all the laws of war you're privileged.

Re-enter Servant The SERVANT re-enters.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
How now! what is't? Well? What is it?

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SERVANT SERVANT
75 A noble troop of strangers; It seems like a noble band of strangers. They've left their
For so they seem: they've left their barge and landed; barge and come to land. They're heading here as great
And hither make, as great ambassadors ambassadors from foreign princes.
From foreign princes.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Good lord chamberlain, Good lord chamberlain, go welcome them. You can speak
80 Go, give 'em welcome; you can speak the French tongue; French. And please treat them well and bring them to us,
And, pray, receive 'em nobly, and conduct 'em where beauty as plentiful as in heaven will shine on them.
Into our presence, where this heaven of beauty Go with him, some of you.
Shall shine at full upon them. Some attend him.

Exit Chamberlain, attended. All rise, and tables removed The CHAMBERLAIN exits with attendants. They all rise and
the tables are removed.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

You have now a broken banquet; but we'll mend it. Your feast has been broken up, but we'll fix that. I wish all of
85 A good digestion to you all: and once more you good digestion. I welcome you once more: welcome,
I shower a welcome on ye; welcome all. all.

Hautboys. Enter KING HENRY VIII and others, as masquers, habited Oboes sound. KING HENRY VIII and others enter dressed like
like shepherds, ushered by the Chamberlain. They pass directly shepherds, led by the CHAMBERLAIN. They go straight
before CARDINAL WOLSEY, and gracefully salute him to CARDINAL WOLSEY and bow to him gracefully.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

A noble company! what are their pleasures? This is a noble band! What do they want?

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
90 Because they speak no English, thus they pray'd Because they don't speak English, they asked me to tell you
To tell your grace, that, having heard by fame that, having heard rumors of this noble and beautiful crowd
Of this so noble and so fair assembly meeting here tonight, they had to leave their flocks because
This night to meet here, they could do no less of the great respect they have for beauty. They beg you to
Out of the great respect they bear to beauty, allow them to see these ladies and they ask for an hour of
95 But leave their flocks; and, under your fair conduct, dancing with them.
Crave leave to view these ladies and entreat
An hour of revels with 'em.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Say, lord chamberlain, Tell them, lord chamberlain, they have done an honor to
They have done my poor house grace; for which I pay 'em my house. I give them a thousand thanks in return and ask
100 A thousand thanks, and pray 'em take their pleasures. them to do as they like.

They choose Ladies for the dance. KING HENRY VIII chooses ANNE They choose ladies for the dance. KING HENRY VIII chooses
ANNE.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

The fairest hand I ever touch'd! O beauty, The most beautiful hand I ever touched! Oh, I never knew
Till now I never knew thee! what beauty was until now!

Music. Dance Music plays and they dance.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

105 My lord! My lord!

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Your grace? Yes, your grace?

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Pray, tell 'em thus much from me: Please, tell them this from me: one of them should be more
There should be one amongst 'em, by his person, worthy of sitting here than me. If I could only recognize him,
More worthy this place than myself; to whom, I would give up this seat to him out of my love and duty.
110 If I but knew him, with my love and duty
I would surrender it.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
I will, my lord. I will, my lord.

Whispers the Masquers CHAMBERLAIN whispers to the dancers.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

What say they? What do they say?

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CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
115 Such a one, they all confess, They all confess that there is one like that. If you can find
There is indeed; which they would have your grace him he will take the seat.
Find out, and he will take it.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Let me see, then. Let me see, then. Allow me, gentlemen. I choose the king
By all your good leaves, gentlemen; here I'll make here.
120 My royal choice.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Ye have found him, cardinal: You found him, cardinal.

Unmasking KING HENRY VIII removes his disguise.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

You hold a fair assembly; you do well, lord: You throw a beautiful party. That's a good thing, lord. If you
You are a churchman, or, I'll tell you, cardinal, weren't a churchman, cardinal, I can tell you I would judge
125 I should judge now unhappily. you badly.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

I am glad I am glad you're making so many jokes, your grace.
Your grace is grown so pleasant.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

My lord chamberlain, Please, come here, my lord chamberlain. Who's that
130 Prithee, come hither: what fair lady's that? beautiful lady?

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
An't please your grace, Sir Thomas Bullen's daughter-- Your grace, that's Sir Thomas Bullen's daughter. He's the
The Viscount Rochford,--one of her highness' women. Viscount Rochford. She's one of the queen's ladies in
waiting.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

By heaven, she is a dainty one. Sweetheart, By God, she's a pretty one. Sweetheart, I would be rude to
I were unmannerly, to take you out, dance with you and not kiss you. Drink to her health,
135 And not to kiss you. A health, gentlemen! gentlemen! Everyone drink.
Let it go round.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Sir Thomas Lovell, is the banquet ready Sir Thomas Lovell, is the banquet in the private room
I' the privy chamber? ready?

LOVELL LOVELL
Yes, my lord. Yes, my lord.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

140 Your grace, I'm worried you feel a little hot from dancing, your grace.
I fear, with dancing is a little heated.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

I fear, too much. Yes, I'm afraid I feel very hot.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

There's fresher air, my lord, There's fresher air in the next room, my lord.
In the next chamber.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

145 Lead in your ladies, every one: sweet partner, Everyone, lead in your ladies. Dear partner, I won't abandon
I must not yet forsake you: let's be merry: you yet. Let's be cheerful. My good lord cardinal, I have half
Good my lord cardinal, I have half a dozen healths a dozen toasts to drink to these beautiful ladies, and I have
To drink to these fair ladies, and a measure to dance with them again. And then let's think about whom
To lead 'em once again; and then let's dream I like best. Let the music play.
150 Who's best in favour. Let the music knock it.

Exeunt with trumpets They exit with trumpets playing.

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Act 2, Scene 1
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter two Gentlemen, meeting Two GENTLEMEN enter from opposite directions.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Whither away so fast? Where are you going so fast?

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

O, God save ye! Oh, hello! To the hall to hear what will happen to the great
Even to the hall, to hear what shall become Duke of Buckingham.
Of the great Duke of Buckingham.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

5 I'll save you I'll spare you that effort, sir. It's all over, except for bringing
That labour, sir. All's now done, but the ceremony the prisoner back to jail.
Of bringing back the prisoner.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

Were you there? Were you there?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Yes, indeed, was I. Yes, I was.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

10 Pray, speak what has happen'd. Please tell me what happened.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

You may guess quickly what. You can easily guess.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

Is he found guilty? Was he found guilty?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Yes, truly is he, and condemn'd upon't. Yes, and condemned for it.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

I am sorry for't. I'm sorry about that.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

15 So are a number more. So are many other people.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

But, pray, how pass'd it? But tell me, how did it happen?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

I'll tell you in a little. The great duke I'll tell you in a few words. The great duke came to court,
Came to the bar; where to his accusations where he still pled not guilty to the accusations against him
He pleaded still not guilty and alleged and made many good arguments to escape the law. But the
20 Many sharp reasons to defeat the law. king's lawyer brought against him the questioning, proofs,
The king's attorney on the contrary and confessions of many different witnesses. The duke
Urged on the examinations, proofs, confessions asked to have them testify in front of him. So his surveyor
Of divers witnesses; which the duke desired appeared against him along with Sir Gilbert Peck (his
To have brought viva voce to his face: chancellor), John Car (his confessor) and that devilish
25 At which appear'd against him his surveyor; monk Hopkins, who caused this trouble.
Sir Gilbert Peck his chancellor; and John Car,
Confessor to him; with that devil-monk,
Hopkins, that made this mischief.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

That was he He was the one who fed the duke his prophecies?
30 That fed him with his prophecies?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

The same. Yes. They all accused him strongly. He tried to deny
All these accused him strongly; which he fain everything but couldn't. So his peers, seeing this evidence,
Would have flung from him, but, indeed, he could not: found him guilty of high treason. He said a lot that was very
And so his peers, upon this evidence, learned to argue for his life. But everything he said was
35 Have found him guilty of high treason. Much either pitied (but not listened to) or forgotten.

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He spoke, and learnedly, for life; but all

Was either pitied in him or forgotten.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

After all this, how did he bear himself? After all this, how did he act?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

When he was brought again to the bar, to hear When he was brought back to the stand to hear the
40 His knell rung out, his judgment, he was stirr'd judgement, he was filled with such agony that he sweated a
With such an agony, he sweat extremely, lot and spoke words angrily, badly, and hastily. But he came
And something spoke in choler, ill, and hasty: back to himself and showed a noble patience for the rest of
But he fell to himself again, and sweetly it.
In all the rest show'd a most noble patience.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

45 I do not think he fears death. I do not think he fears death.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Sure, he does not: Surely he doesn't. He was never that womanish. He may be
He never was so womanish; the cause a little sad about the cause of his death.
He may a little grieve at.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

Certainly Certainly the cardinal is responsible for this.
50 The cardinal is the end of this.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

'Tis likely, It's likely, and everyone thinks so. First, there's the fact that
By all conjectures: first, Kildare's attainder, Kildare was arrested, who was then the deputy of Ireland.
Then deputy of Ireland; who removed, Once he was removed, the Earl of Surry was sent there, and
Earl Surrey was sent thither, and in haste too, quickly too, so he couldn't help his father.
55 Lest he should help his father.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

That trick of state That was a sneaky, jealous trick.
Was a deep envious one.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

At his return No doubt he'll take his revenge for it when he returns. It has
No doubt he will requite it. This is noted, been noticed that, in general, the cardinal instantly finds a
60 And generally, whoever the king favours, job far from court for whomever the king favors.
The cardinal instantly will find employment,
And far enough from court too.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

All the commons All the common people hate him and I swear they want him
Hate him perniciously, and, o' my conscience, dead and buried. They love this duke as much as they hate
65 Wish him ten fathom deep: this duke as much the cardinal. They call him generous Buckingham, the best
They love and dote on; call him bounteous Buckingham, example of all good qualities—
The mirror of all courtesy;--

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Stay there, sir, Stop there, sir, and look at the noble, ruined man you're
And see the noble ruin'd man you speak of. talking about.
70
Enter BUCKINGHAM from his arraignment; tip-staves before him; the BUCKINGHAM enters from his trial. Staffs are carried in
axe with the edge towards him; halberds on each side: accompanied front of him and an axe with the edge turned towards him
with LOVELL, VAUX, SANDS, and common people to symbolize his death sentence. Armed guards are on each
side of him. He's accompanied by LOVELL, VAUX, SANDS,
and some common people.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

Let's stand close, and behold him. Let's get closer and look at him.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
All good people, Good people, you who have come here to pity me, listen to
You that thus far have come to pity me, what I say and then go home and forget me. Today I was
Hear what I say, and then go home and lose me. sentenced as a traitor, and I must die as one. But, may
75 I have this day received a traitor's judgment, heaven bear witness, and may my conscience sink me into
And by that name must die: yet, heaven bear witness, the ground just as the axe is falling if I lie, I am a faithful
And if I have a conscience, let it sink me, subject! I don't blame the law for my death. It did what was
Even as the axe falls, if I be not faithful! right based on the evidence. But I wish those who
The law I bear no malice for my death; prosecuted me were better Christians. Whatever they are, I
80

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'T has done, upon the premises, but justice: gladly forgive them. But let them be sure not to be proud of
But those that sought it I could wish more Christians: the mischief they do or kill great men to pursue their evil
Be what they will, I heartily forgive 'em: goals. Because then my innocent blood will accuse them. I
Yet let 'em look they glory not in mischief, don't hope for more life in this world and I won't ask for it,
Nor build their evils on the graves of great men; although the king is able to forgive more evil deeds than I
85 For then my guiltless blood must cry against 'em. would dare do. You few who loved me and dare to weep for
For further life in this world I ne'er hope, Buckingham, his noble friends, the only pain and death he
Nor will I sue, although the king have mercies feels is having to leave you. Go with me to my death like
More than I dare make faults. You few that loved me, good angels. And, as the blade cuts me in two, offer your
And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham, prayers as a sweet offering to God and lift my soul to
90 His noble friends and fellows, whom to leave heaven. Let's go, in God's name.
Is only bitter to him, only dying,
Go with me, like good angels, to my end;
And, as the long divorce of steel falls on me,
Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice,
95 And lift my soul to heaven. Lead on, o' God's name.

LOVELL LOVELL
I do beseech your grace, for charity, Please, your grace, as a kindness, forgive me if there was
If ever any malice in your heart ever any resentment against me in your heart.
Were hid against me, now to forgive me frankly.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
Sir Thomas Lovell, I as free forgive you Sir Thomas Lovell, I forgive you as freely as I wish to be
100 As I would be forgiven: I forgive all; forgiven. I forgive everything. There can't be so many
There cannot be those numberless offences crimes against me that I can't forgive them all. No evil
'Gainst me, that I cannot take peace with: resentment will be left in me when I die. Give my best to the
no black envy king. If he talks about Buckingham, please, tell him you saw
Shall mark my grave. Commend me to his grace; him already half in heaven. My prayers are still with the king
105 And if he speak of Buckingham, pray, tell him and until I die I will bless him: may he live longer than I have
You met him half in heaven: my vows and prayers time to count his age! May he be always beloved and loving!
Yet are the king's; and, till my soul forsake, And when it's time for him to die, may he lie in the same 1 Presumably, this wish for
Shall cry for blessings on him: may he live grave as goodness 1 ! "goodness" and the king to "fill up
Longer than I have time to tell his years! one monument" means something
110 Ever beloved and loving may his rule be! like "May he be good for the rest of his
life."
And when old time shall lead him to his end,
Goodness and he fill up one monument!

LOVELL LOVELL
To the water side I must conduct your grace; I must lead you to the riverbank, your grace, then hand you
Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux, over to Sir Nicholas Vaux, who will lead you to your death.
115 Who undertakes you to your end.

VAUX VAUX
Prepare there, Prepare yourselves, the duke is coming. Make sure the
The duke is coming: see the barge be ready; barge is ready and fill it with furniture good enough for
And fit it with such furniture as suits someone that important.
The greatness of his person.

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM
120 Nay, Sir Nicholas, No, Sir Nicholas, leave it alone. Standing on ceremony will
Let it alone; my state now will but mock me. only mock me now. When I came here I was lord high
When I came hither, I was lord high constable constable and the Duke of Buckingam. Now, I'm just
And Duke of Buckingham; now, poor Edward Bohun: Edward Bohun. But I am better than my low accusers who
Yet I am richer than my base accusers, never knew what truth was. I am now showing them. And 2 Remember that Buckingham's
125 That never knew what truth meant: I now seal it; my blood will punish them for this someday. My noble father led an unsuccessful rebellion in
And with that blood will make 'em one day groan for't. father 2 , Henry of Buckingham, who first revolted against the name of Henry VIII's father, and
My noble father, Henry of Buckingham, the usurper Richard, ran for help to his servant Bannister was executed for treason.
Who first raised head against usurping Richard, when he was in trouble and was betrayed by that wretch
Flying for succor to his servant Banister, and died without a trial. May he rest in peace! Henry VII
130 Being distress'd, was by that wretch betray'd, succeeded to the throne and pitied the death of my father.
And without trial fell; God's peace be with him! Like a good king should, he gave me back the titles I had
Henry the Seventh succeeding, truly pitying lost and made my name noble again. Now his son, Henry
My father's loss, like a most royal prince, VIII, takes my life, honor, name, and everything that made
Restored me to my honours, and, out of ruins, me happy from this world with one stroke. I had my trial
135 Made my name once more noble. Now his son, and I have to say it was a noble one. That makes me a little
Henry the Eighth, life, honour, name and all luckier than my poor father. But we are the same in our
That made me happy at one stroke has taken fortune in this way: we were both brought down by our
For ever from the world. I had my trial, servants, by the men we loved most. Those were unnatural
And, must needs say, a noble one; which makes me, and unfaithful servants! God is responsible for everything.
140 A little happier than my wretched father: But you who listen to me, know this for sure since you hear
Yet thus far we are one in fortunes: both it from a dying man. Be sure that you are not too generous
Fell by our servants, by those men we loved most; with your love and your secrets. Because those you make
A most unnatural and faithless service! your friends and give your hearts to will fall away from you
Heaven has an end in all: yet, you that hear me, like drops of water when they see the smallest misfortune
145

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This from a dying man receive as certain: ahead of you. And they will disappear forever, except when
Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels they come back to drown you. All good people should pray
Be sure you be not loose; for those you make friends for me! I must leave you now. The last hour of my long, tired
And give your hearts to, when they once perceive life has arrived. Goodbye. And when you want to hear
The least rub in your fortunes, fall away something sad, talk about how I died. I am done. May God
150 Like water from ye, never found again forgive me!
But where they mean to sink ye. All good people,
Pray for me! I must now forsake ye: the last hour
Of my long weary life is come upon me. Farewell:
And when you would say something that is sad,
155 Speak how I fell. I have done; and God forgive me!

Exeunt BUCKINGHAM and Train BUCKINGHAM and his attendants exit.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

O, this is full of pity! Sir, it calls, Oh, this is sad! I'm afraid this will damn the people who did
I fear, too many curses on their heads it.
That were the authors.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

If the duke be guiltless, If the duke is innocent, this is really sad. But I can give you a
160 'Tis full of woe: yet I can give you inkling hint of a future evil that will be worse than this if it
Of an ensuing evil, if it fall, happens.
Greater than this.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Good angels keep it from us! May good angels protect us from it! What can it be? You
What may it be? You do not doubt my faith, sir? trust me to keep it secret, don't you sir?

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

165 This secret is so weighty, 'twill require This secret is so important that it will require great strength
A strong faith to conceal it. of character to keep it secret.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Let me have it; Let me hear it. I don't talk much.
I do not talk much.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

I am confident, I trust you. You will hear it, sir. Did you not recently hear talk
170 You shall, sir: did you not of late days hear about a separation between the king and Katharine?
A buzzing of a separation
Between the king and Katharine?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Yes, but it held not: Yes, but it wasn't true. Because when the king heard about
For when the king once heard it, out of anger it, he was angry and sent an order immediately to the
175 He sent command to the lord mayor straight mayor to stop the rumor and arrest the people who dared
To stop the rumor, and allay those tongues to spread it.
That durst disperse it.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

But that slander, sir, But it turns out that this lie is true now. Because the rumor
Is found a truth now: for it grows again has reappeared stronger than it ever was, and it's believed
180 Fresher than e'er it was; and held for certain that the king will definitely try to get a separation. Either
The king will venture at it. Either the cardinal, the cardinal or some of his people have, out of malice
Or some about him near, have, out of malice against the good queen, ruined her by sowing some doubt
To the good queen, possess'd him with a scruple in the king. What confirms the truth of this is that Cardinal
That will undo her: to confirm this too, Campeius has recently arrived, and everyone thinks it's
185 Cardinal Campeius is arrived, and lately; about this business.
As all think, for this business.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

'Tis the cardinal; It's the cardinal. And he's doing this just to get revenge
And merely to revenge him on the emperor against the emperor for not making him archbishop of
For not bestowing on him, at his asking, Toledo as he asked.
190 The archbishopric of Toledo, this is purposed.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

I think you have hit the mark: but is't not cruel I think you're right. But isn't it cruel to make her suffer for
That she should feel the smart of this? The cardinal that? The cardinal will get what he wants and she will lose
Will have his will, and she must fall. power.

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FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

'Tis woful. It is sad. We shouldn't talk about this so openly. Let's
195 We are too open here to argue this; consider this more in private.
Let's think in private more.

Exeunt They exit.

Act 2, Scene 2
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter Chamberlain, reading a letter CHAMBERLAIN enters reading a letter.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
'My lord, the horses your lordship sent for, with "My lord, I made sure the horses you sent for were well
all the care I had, I saw well chosen, ridden, and chosen, trained, and cared for. They were young and good-
furnished. They were young and handsome, and of the looking, and of the best breed of the north. When they were
best breed in the north. When they were ready to ready to send to London, a servant of the cardinal's took
5 set out for London, a man of my lord cardinal's, by them from me by force and with a warrant he had. He said
commission and main power, took 'em from me; with this was the reason: his master had to be served before a
this reason: His master would be served before a subject, if not before the king. We couldn't say anything to
subject, if not before the king; which stopped our that, sir." I am afraid he will be served before the king. Well,
mouths, sir.' let him have them. I think he will have everything.
10 I fear he will indeed: well, let him have them:
He will have all, I think.

Enter, to Chamberlain, NORFOLK and SUFFOLK NORFOLK and SUFFOLK enter and go up to CHAMBERLAIN.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Well met, my lord chamberlain. Hello, my lord chamberlain.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Good day to both your graces. Good day to both of you.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
How is the king employ'd? What is the king doing?

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
15 I left him private, I left him alone, thinking sad thoughts and feeling troubled.
Full of sad thoughts and troubles.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
What's the cause? Why?

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
It seems the marriage with his brother's wife It seems that he's feeling guilty about his marriage to his
Has crept too near his conscience. brother's wife.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
20 No, his conscience No, I think he's thinking about another lady.
Has crept too near another lady.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
'Tis so: It's true. This is the cardinal's doing, the king-cardinal more
This is the cardinal's doing, the king-cardinal: like. That blind priest does what he wants as if he's
That blind priest, like the eldest son of fortune, fortune's oldest son and heir. The king will find out what
25 Turns what he list. The king will know him one day. he's really like someday.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
Pray God he do! he'll never know himself else. I pray to God he does! Or he'll never understand himself.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
How holily he works in all his business! He acts so religiously in everything he does! And so eagerly!
And with what zeal! for, now he has crack'd the league Because now he has broken the alliance between us and 1 Remember that Charles V, the
Between us and the emperor, the queen's great nephew, the emperor 1 , the queen's powerful nephew, he messes Holy Roman Emperor at the time, was
30 He dives into the king's soul, and there scatters with the king's mind and scatters dangerous thoughts, the queen's nephew.
Dangers, doubts, wringing of the conscience, doubts, fears, and despair, and troubles his conscience. All
Fears, and despairs; and all these for his marriage: this is about his marriage. And to cure the king of all this he
And out of all these to restore the king, suggests a divorce. That would mean the loss of the woman

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He counsels a divorce; a loss of her who hung around his neck like a jewel for twenty years and
35 That, like a jewel, has hung twenty years never lost her brightness. The loss of the woman who loves
About his neck, yet never lost her lustre; him as much as angels love good men. The woman who
Of her that loves him with that excellence would still bless the king even if the worst disaster
That angels love good men with; even of her happened. Isn't this a religious thing to do?
That, when the greatest stroke of fortune falls,
40 Will bless the king: and is not this course pious?

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Heaven keep me from such counsel! 'Tis most true May heaven protect me from advice like that! It's true that
These news are every where; every tongue speaks 'em, this news is everywhere. Everyone is saying this and every
And every true heart weeps for't: all that dare good heart weeps for it. Everyone who dares look into this
Look into these affairs see this main end, affair see that he wants the king to marry the French king's
45 The French king's sister. Heaven will one day open sister. One day God will open the king's eyes. He hasn't seen
The king's eyes, that so long have slept upon this bold, bad man as he really is for so long.
This bold bad man.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
And free us from his slavery. And God will free us from slavery to him.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
We had need pray, We need to pray (and to pray strongly) for help, or this
50 And heartily, for our deliverance; proud man will turn us from princes into servants. He does
Or this imperious man will work us all whatever he wants with men's honors.
From princes into pages: all men's honours
Lie like one lump before him, to be fashion'd
Into what pitch he please.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
55 For me, my lords, As for me, my lord, I neither love him nor fear him. That's
I love him not, nor fear him; there's my creed: what I say. I'll do the best I can without his help, if the king
As I am made without him, so I'll stand, wishes it. His curse and his blessings affect me equally:
If the king please; his curses and his blessings they're just breath and I don't believe in them. I always
Touch me alike, they're breath I not believe in. knew what he was like and I still do. So I leave him to the
60 I knew him, and I know him; so I leave him man who made him proud, the Pope.
To him that made him proud, the pope.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Let's in; Let's go in and distract the king from these sad thoughts
And with some other business put the king that affect him too much with some other business. Will you
From these sad thoughts, that work too much upon him: accompany us, my lord?
65 My lord, you'll bear us company?

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Excuse me; I can't, I'm sorry. The king has sent me elsewhere. Besides,
The king has sent me otherwhere: besides, this isn't a good time to disturb him. Goodbye.
You'll find a most unfit time to disturb him:
Health to your lordships.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
70 Thanks, my good lord chamberlain. Thank you, lord chamberlain.

Exit Chamberlain; and KING HENRY VIII draws the curtain, and sits The CHAMBERLAIN exits. KING HENRY VIII opens the curtain
reading pensively to his room and sits reading thoughtfully.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
How sad he looks! sure, he is much afflicted. He looks so sad! He's definitely feeling very disturbed.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Who's there, ha? Who's there?

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Pray God he be not angry. I pray to God he isn't angry.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

75 Who's there, I say? How dare you thrust yourselves I said, who's there? How dare you interrupt me when I'm
Into my private meditations? thinking? Who do you think I am, huh?
Who am I? ha?

NORFOLK NORFOLK
A gracious king that pardons all offences A kind king who forgives offenses that weren't intentional.
Malice ne'er meant: our breach of duty this way We failed in our duty because of state business and we've
80 Is business of estate; in which we come come to know what you want to do about it.

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To know your royal pleasure.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Ye are too bold: You're too bold. Go away. I'll let you know what time you
Go to; I'll make ye know your times of business: can come talk about business. Does this seem like a time
Is this an hour for temporal affairs, ha? for unholy business?
85
Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS, with a CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS enter with a
commission written document.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Who's there? my good lord cardinal? O my Wolsey, Who's there? The cardinal? Oh my dear Wolsey, you heal my
The quiet of my wounded conscience; wounded conscience. You're a cure good enough for a king.
Thou art a cure fit for a king.
90 [To CARDINAL CAMPEIUS] [To CARDINAL CAMPEIUS] You're welcome, wise respected
You're welcome, sir, to my kingdom. Do what you like with it and with me.
Most learned reverend sir, into our kingdom:
Use us and it. [TO CARDINAL WOLSEY] My good lord, make sure I don't
95 [TO CARDINAL WOLSEY] talk too much.
My good lord, have great care
I be not found a talker.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Sir, you cannot. You couldn't possibly, sir. I wish you would just give us an
100 I would your grace would give us but an hour hour of private conversation, your grace.
Of private conference.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

[To NORFOLK and SUFFOLK] [To NORFOLK and SUFFOLK] I'm busy; go away.
We are busy; go.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
[Aside to SUFFOLK] [So only SUFFOLK can hear] Surely this priest doesn't have
105 This priest has no pride in him? any pride in him?

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
[Aside to NORFOLK] Not to speak of: [So only NORFOLK can hear] None to speak of. I wouldn't be
I would not be so sick though for his place: like him in return for all his power. This can't go on.
But this cannot continue.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
[Aside to SUFFOLK] If it do, [So only SUFFOLK can hear] If it does, I'll attack him.
110 I'll venture one have-at-him.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
[Aside to NORFOLK] I another. [So only NORFOLK can hear] So will I.

Exeunt NORFOLK and SUFFOLK NORFOLK and SUFFOLK exit.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Your grace has given a precedent of wisdom You have shown greater wisdom than all other princes in
Above all princes, in committing freely telling your doubts to the spokesperson of all Christianity.
115 Your scruple to the voice of Christendom: Who can be angry now, or envious? The Spanish, who are
Who can be angry now? what envy reach you? her relatives and loyal to her, must confess if they are good
The Spaniard, tied blood and favour to her, people that the trial is fair and noble. All the clerks, I mean
Must now confess, if they have any goodness, the learned ones, in Christian kingdoms can speak wisely
The trial just and noble. All the clerks, about this. Rome, with its good judgement, invited by you,
120 I mean the learned ones, in Christian kingdoms has sent one man to speak for it to us, this good man, this
Have their free voices: Rome, the nurse of judgment, fair and learned priest, Cardinal Campeius. I introduce him
Invited by your noble self, hath sent to you once more, your highness.
One general tongue unto us, this good man,
This just and learned priest, Cardinal Campeius;
125 Whom once more I present unto your highness.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

And once more in mine arms I bid him welcome, And once more I welcome him with a hug and thank the
And thank the holy conclave for their loves: cardinals for their affection to me. They have sent me just
They have sent me such a man I would have wish'd for. the kind of man I hoped for.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

Your grace must needs deserve all strangers' loves, You deserve the love of all strangers, your grace, because
130 You are so noble. To your highness' hand you are so noble. I give my warrant to you, your highness. In
I tender my commission; by whose virtue,

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The court of Rome commanding, you, my lord it the court of Rome makes me, their servant, and you, my
Cardinal of York, are join'd with me their servant lord Cardinal of York, impartial judges in this matter.
In the unpartial judging of this business.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

135 Two equal men. The queen shall be acquainted Two equally virtuous men. The queen will be told what
Forthwith for what you come. Where's Gardiner? you've come for immediately. Where's Gardiner?

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

I know your majesty has always loved her I know you've always loved her so much that you won't
So dear in heart, not to deny her that deny her what even a less important woman has the right
A woman of less place might ask by law: to ask for: scholars allowed to argue freely on her side.
140 Scholars allow'd freely to argue for her.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Ay, and the best she shall have; and my favour Yes, God forbid, and she'll have the best ones. I'll reward
To him that does best: God forbid else. Cardinal, the one who does best. Cardinal, please call Gardiner, my
Prithee, call Gardiner to me, my new secretary: new secretary. I like him.
I find him a fit fellow.

Exit CARDINAL WOLSEY. Re-enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, with GARDINER CARDINAL WOLSEY exits. CARDINAL WOLSEY re-enters, with
GARDINER.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

145 [Aside to GARDINER] Give me your hand much joy and [So only GARDINER can hear] Shake my hand. I wish you
favour to you; well. You work for the king now.
You are the king's now.

GARDINER GARDINER
[Aside to CARDINAL WOLSEY] [So only CARDINAL WOLSEY can hear] But I'll always do as
But to be commanded you command, your grace. You helped me rise in power.
150 For ever by your grace, whose hand has raised me.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Come hither, Gardiner. Come here, Gardiner.

Walks and whispers They walk and whisper together.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

My Lord of York, was not one Doctor Pace My Lord of York, didn't a certain Doctor Pace do this man's
In this man's place before him? job before him?

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

155 Yes, he was. Yes, he did.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

Was he not held a learned man? Wasn't he thought to be a learned man?

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Yes, surely. Yes, absolutely.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

Believe me, there's an ill opinion spread then Believe me, then, there's a bad rumor being spread about
Even of yourself, lord cardinal. you, lord cardinal.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

160 How! of me? What! About me?

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

They will not stick to say you envied him, They're not afraid to say you envied him and you were
And fearing he would rise, he was so virtuous, afraid he would rise in power because he was virtuous, so
Kept him a foreign man still; which so grieved him, you kept him away from the king. This made him so sad
That he ran mad and died. that he went crazy and died.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

165 Heaven's peace be with him! May he rest in peace! That's all my Christian duty to him:
That's Christian care enough: for living murmurers saying that. As for living slanderers, there are places they
There's places of rebuke. He was a fool; can be punished. He was a fool, because he insisted on
For he would needs be virtuous: that good fellow, being virtuous. That good man does what I say when I give
If I command him, follows my appointment: him commands. I have no one else as faithful. Learn this,
170 I will have none so near else. Learn this, brother, brother: we don't need less important people meddling
We live not to be grip'd by meaner persons. with us.

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KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Deliver this with modesty to the queen. Tell the queen kindly about this.

Exit GARDINER GARDINER exits.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

The most convenient place that I can think of The best place I can think of to hear the case is Black-Friars.
175 For such receipt of learning is Black-Friars; You will meet about this important business there. Have it
There ye shall meet about this weighty business. prepared, my dear Wolsey. Oh, my lord, wouldn't a man
My Wolsey, see it furnish'd. O, my lord, who had a choice about it be sad to leave such a sweet
Would it not grieve an able man to leave wife? But my conscience, my conscience! My conscience is
So sweet a bedfellow? But, conscience, conscience! disturbed about this and I must leave her.
180 O, 'tis a tender place; and I must leave her.

Exeunt They exit.

Act 2, Scene 3
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter ANNE and an Old Lady ANNE and an OLD LADY enter.

ANNE ANNE
Not for that neither: here's the pang that pinches: No, that's not it. This is what bothers me: the king has lived
His highness having lived so long with her, and she with her for so long and she's such a good wife that no one
So good a lady that no tongue could ever could ever speak badly of her. I swear she's never hurt
Pronounce dishonour of her; by my life, anyone. Oh, now she's shared the king's throne for so long
5 She never knew harm-doing: O, now, after and grown so powerful and majestic that it will be a
So many courses of the sun enthroned, thousand times more sad for him to leave her than it was
Still growing in a majesty and pomp, the which delightful for him to get her at first. Kicking her out after all
To leave a thousand-fold more bitter than this time! Even a monster would pity her.
'Tis sweet at first to acquire,--after this process,
10 To give her the avaunt! it is a pity
Would move a monster.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

Hearts of most hard temper Even the hardest hearts melt and are sad for her.
Melt and lament for her.

ANNE ANNE
O, God's will! much better Oh, I wish she had never been in power. Power is just a
15 She ne'er had known pomp: though't be temporal, temporary worldly good, but being separated from it by
Yet, if that quarrel, fortune, do divorce bad fortune hurts as badly as death.
It from the bearer, 'tis a sufferance panging
As soul and body's severing.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

Alas, poor lady! Poor woman! Now she's a stranger in this country again.
20 She's a stranger now again.

ANNE ANNE
So much the more So much the more reason to pity her. I swear it's better to
Must pity drop upon her. Verily, be low-born and wander around happily with other humble
I swear, 'tis better to be lowly born, people than to be dressed up in glittering costumes but be
And range with humble livers in content, sad, as if you were wearing sadness made of gold.
25 Than to be perk'd up in a glistering grief,
And wear a golden sorrow.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

Our content Happiness is our most important possession.
Is our best having.

ANNE ANNE
By my troth and maidenhead, I swear by my faithfulness and virginity I wouldn't want to
30 I would not be a queen. be a queen.

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OLD LADY OLD LADY

Beshrew me, I would, Damn me, I would, and I would give my virginity to become
And venture maidenhead for't; and so would you, one. And so would you, even though you're being a
For all this spice of your hypocrisy: hypocrite about it. You have all the attractive parts a
You, that have so fair parts of woman on you, woman should have including a woman's heart, which
35 Have too a woman's heart; which ever yet always wants high status, wealth, and power. And those
Affected eminence, wealth, sovereignty; things really are blessings. You would be able to fit all those 1 The Old Lady suggests that Anne
Which, to say sooth, are blessings; and which gifts, gifts in your soft conscience if you were willing to stretch it ought to "stretch" her sense of what is
Saving your mincing, the capacity out like a kid-skin glove 1 . right as one stretches a leather glove,
Of your soft cheveril conscience would receive, thereby making it possible for her to
accept gifts of power and wealth while
40 If you might please to stretch it. remaining virtuous.

ANNE ANNE
Nay, good troth. Goodness, no.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

Yes, troth, and troth; you would not be a queen? Goodness yes, and say yes. You don't want to be a queen?

ANNE ANNE
No, not for all the riches under heaven. No, not for all the wealth in the world.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

'Tis strange: a three-pence bow'd would hire me, It's strange. I could be hired to be a queen with a three-
45 Old as I am, to queen it: but, I pray you, penny coin, old as I am. But what do you think of being a
What think you of a duchess? have you limbs duchess? Would you be strong enough to bear that title?
To bear that load of title?

ANNE ANNE
No, in truth. Really, no.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

Then you are weakly made: pluck off a little; Then you're weak. Come on. I wouldn't want to be a young
50 I would not be a young count in your way, count going after you: he wouldn't get any more than 2 The bawdy pun that makes up the
For more than blushing comes to: if your back blushing from you. If your back can't bear this burden of a Old Lady's speech doubles as
Cannot vouchsafe this burthen,'tis too weak title it's too weak for you to lie on it to conceive a boy 2 . foreshadowing. The Old Lady suggests
Ever to get a boy. that if Anne can't even bear or
"vouchsafe" to become a duchess, she
won't be able to conceive and bear a
boy-child. Henry would later execute
Anne after she failed to produce a
male heir.

ANNE ANNE
How you do talk! You say such terrible things! I promise again, I wouldn't
55 I swear again, I would not be a queen agree to be queen for everything in the world.
For all the world.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

In faith, for little England For little England, you'd dare to bear an emballing 3 . I 3 The Old Lady is full of bawdy
You'ld venture an emballing: I myself would just for Carnarvonshire, even if the king didn't own puns. An "emballing" is the formal
Would for Carnarvonshire, although there long'd anything more than that. installation of a king or queen with the
60 No more to the crown but that. Lo, who comes here? ball or orb that symbolizes royalty.
Here, it also refers to the male sexual
organ.

Enter Chamberlain CHAMBERLAIN enters.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Good morrow, ladies. What were't worth to know Good morning, ladies. What would I have to give you to
The secret of your conference? hear what you were talking about?

ANNE ANNE
My good lord, My good lord, don't even give us your question. It's not
Not your demand; it values not your asking: worth asking about. We were feeling sorry for our mistress.
65 Our mistress' sorrows we were pitying.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
It was a gentle business, and becoming That was kind, and the right thing for good women to do.
The action of good women: there is hope There's hope that everything will be fine.
All will be well.

ANNE ANNE
Now, I pray God, amen! I hope so!

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CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
70 You bear a gentle mind, and heavenly blessings You have a good mind. God blesses people like you. So that
Follow such creatures. That you may, fair lady, you know I'm speaking sincerely, beautiful lady, when I say
Perceive I speak sincerely, and high note's that important people notice your virtue, the king says he
Ta'en of your many virtues, the king's majesty thinks highly of you and wants to do you the honor of 4 A "marchioness," counterpart to
Commends his good opinion of you, and making you Marchioness 4 of Pembroke. In addition to the male title of marquis, ranks below
75 Does purpose honour to you no less flowing this title he kindly adds a thousand pounds a year as annual a duchess and above a countess. It is,
Than Marchioness of Pembroke: to which title support. in other words, a very high rank in the
British peerage, and quite the honor
A thousand pound a year, annual support, for Anne.
Out of his grace he adds.

ANNE ANNE
I do not know I don't know how to show my gratefulness. Even giving him
80 What kind of my obedience I should tender; more than all I have would count for nothing. It's not that
More than my all is nothing: nor my prayers my prayers aren't holy words and my wishes are pointless,
Are not words duly hallow'd, nor my wishes but prayers and wishes are all I can give him in return.
More worth than empty vanities; yet prayers and wishes Please, your lordship, tell the king that my thankfulness
Are all I can return. Beseech your lordship, and obedience are as great as if I were just a blushing
85 Vouchsafe to speak my thanks and my obedience, servant. I pray for his health and royalty.
As from a blushing handmaid, to his highness;
Whose health and royalty I pray for.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Lady, Lady, I will confirm the king's good opinion of you.
I shall not fail to approve the fair conceit
90 The king hath of you. [To himself] I have examined her carefully. She has so much
I have perused her well; beauty and honor that she has captured the king's heart.
Beauty and honour in her are so mingled Who knows, maybe this lady will have a child like a gem 5 5 The "child" like a "gem" that Anne
That they have caught the king: and who knows yet that will brighten this whole island. would bear is Queen Elizabeth,
But from this lady may proceed a gem sometimes called "Gloriana" to
95 To lighten all this isle? I'll to the king, [To Anne] I'll go to the king and say I spoke to you. symbolize how her greatness shone
throughout the kingdom.
And say I spoke with you.

Exit Chamberlain CHAMBERLAIN exits.

ANNE ANNE
My honour'd lord. Goodbye, my lord.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

Why, this it is; see, see! See? See? This is it! I have been begging in court for sixteen
I have been begging sixteen years in court, years and I'm still a poor courtier and have never been in
100 Am yet a courtier beggarly, nor could the right place at the right time to be given money. But you,
Come pat betwixt too early and too late oh this is fate! You're new here--damn, damn this fortune
For any suit of pounds; and you, O fate! forced on you!--your mouth is filled with fortune before you
A very fresh-fish here--fie, fie, fie upon even open it.
This compell'd fortune!--have your mouth fill'd up
105 Before you open it.

ANNE ANNE
This is strange to me. This is strange to me.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

How tastes it? is it bitter? forty pence, no. How does it taste? Does it taste bad? I bet forty cents it
There was a lady once, 'tis an old story, doesn't. There was once a lady, it's an old story, who didn't
That would not be a queen, that would she not, want to be a queen, she didn't, for all the mud in Egypt 6 . 6 The "mud in Egypt," enriched by
110 For all the mud in Egypt: have you heard it? Have you heard it? the Nile river, is the source of the
country's wealth.

ANNE ANNE
Come, you are pleasant. Come on, you're joking.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

With your theme, I could With your gifts, I could rise higher in court than a lark rises
O'ermount the lark. The Marchioness of Pembroke! in the sky. The Marchioness of Pembroke! A thousand
A thousand pounds a year for pure respect! pounds a year just because he respects you! No other
115 No other obligation! By my life, obligations! By my life, that promises more thousands.
That promises moe thousands: honour's train Honor is like a dress with a longer back than front: more
Is longer than his foreskirt. By this time follows than came before this. By this time I know you will
I know your back will bear a duchess: say, be able to bear the title of duchess. Tell me, aren't you
Are you not stronger than you were? already stronger than you were?

ANNE ANNE
120 Good lady, My good lady, make yourself laugh with the things you
Make yourself mirth with your particular fancy, imagine and leave me out of it. I'd rather die than feel

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And leave me out on't. Would I had no being, excited about this. I'm scared to think about what will
If this salute my blood a jot: it faints me, happen next. The queen is in despair and we are neglecting
To think what follows. her by being gone so long. Please don't tell her what you
125 The queen is comfortless, and we forgetful heard here.
In our long absence: pray, do not deliver
What here you've heard to her.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

What do you think me? What kind of person do you think I am?

Exeunt They exit.

Act 2, Scene 4
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Trumpets, sennet, and cornets. Enter two Vergers, with short silver Different trumpet sounds are heard. Two vergers (church
wands; next them, two Scribes, in the habit of doctors; after them, officials) enter carrying short silver wands. Next to them
CANTERBURY alone; after him, LINCOLN, Ely, Rochester, and Saint enter two scribes dressed like doctors. Following them,
Asaph; next them, with some small distance, follows a Gentleman CANTERBURY enters alone. After him, LINCOLN, Ely,
bearing the purse, with the great seal, and a cardinal's hat; then two Rochester, and Saint Asaph enter. After them, following at a
Priests, bearing each a silver cross; then a Gentleman-usher bare- short distance, enters a gentleman carrying the cardinal's
headed, accompanied with a Sergeant-at-arms bearing a silver mace; purse with the Great Seal and a cardinal's hat. Then enter
then two Gentlemen bearing two great silver pillars; after them, side two priests, each carrying a silver cross. Then an usher
by side, CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS; two Noblemen enters bareheaded, with a sergeant-at-arms carrying a
with the sword and mace. KING HENRY VIII takes place under the silver staff. Then two gentlemen enter carrying two large
cloth of state; CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS sit under silver sticks. After them enter CARDINAL WOLSEY and
him as judges. QUEEN KATHARINE takes place some distance from CARDINAL CAMPEIUS side by side. Two noblemen enter
KING HENRY VIII. The Bishops place themselves on each side the with a sword and staff. KING HENRY VIII sits under a
court, in manner of a consistory; below them, the Scribes. The Lords canopy. CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS sit
sit next the Bishops. The rest of the Attendants stand in convenient below him as judges. QUEEN KATHARINE sits at some
order about the stage distance from KING HENRY VIII. The bishops sit at either
side of the court as though they are at a church council. The
scribes sit below them. The lords sit next to the
bishops. The rest of the attendants are arranged around the
stage.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Whilst our commission from Rome is read, Silence while our warrant from Rome is being read.
Let silence be commanded.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

What's the need? Why? It has already been read publicly and its authority has
It hath already publicly been read, been accepted by everyone. So don't waste that time.
5 And on all sides the authority allow'd;
You may, then, spare that time.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Be't so. Proceed. Very well. Go on.

SCRIBE SCRIBE
Say, Henry King of England, come into the court. Say, Henry King of England, come into the court.

CRIER CRIER
Henry King of England, & c. Henry King of England, come into the court.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

10 Here. Here.

SCRIBE SCRIBE
Say, Katharine Queen of England, come into the court. Say, Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.

CRIER CRIER
Katharine Queen of England, & c. Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.

QUEEN KATHARINE makes no answer, rises out of her chair, goes QUEEN KATHARINE doesn't answer but rises from her chair,
about the court, comes to KING HENRY VIII, and kneels at his feet; goes around the court, comes to KING HENRY VIII, and
then speaks kneels at his feet, then speaks.

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QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Sir, I desire you do me right and justice; Sir, I ask you to do what is right and just by me and to pity
15 And to bestow your pity on me: for me. I am a very miserable woman and a stranger born
I am a most poor woman, and a stranger, outside your land. I have no unbiased judge here and no
Born out of your dominions; having here guarantee of fair treatment. Sir, how have I offended you?
No judge indifferent, nor no more assurance What cause has my behavior given you to be angry and to
Of equal friendship and proceeding. Alas, sir, divorce me and take away your kindness from me? May
20 In what have I offended you? what cause heaven be my witness, I have been a faithful and humble
Hath my behavior given to your displeasure, wife to you and have always done what you wanted. I have
That thus you should proceed to put me off, always been afraid of making you dislike me and have been
And take your good grace from me? Heaven witness, guided by your appearance: I have been happy or sad
I have been to you a true and humble wife, according to how happy or sad you seemed. When have I
25 At all times to your will conformable; ever refused anything you desired or not also desired it for
Ever in fear to kindle your dislike, you? Or which of your friends have I not tried to love even if
Yea, subject to your countenance, glad or sorry I knew he was my enemy? What friend of mine who had
As I saw it inclined: when was the hour made you angry did I continue to like? No, I always had him
I ever contradicted your desire, sent away. Sir, remember I have been your wife, obedient to
30 Or made it not mine too? Or which of your friends you in this way, for more than twenty years and have been
Have I not strove to love, although I knew blessed in becoming pregnant with many of your children.
He were mine enemy? what friend of mine If, in the course of all this time, you can report and prove
That had to him derived your anger, did I anything against my honor, my faithfulness in marriage, or
Continue in my liking? nay, gave notice my love and duty to you, in God's name, send me away.
35 He was from thence discharged. Sir, call to mind Hate me, shut your door to me, and give me up to the law's
That I have been your wife, in this obedience, punishment. Please sir, the king your father was known as a
Upward of twenty years, and have been blest very wise king, of excellent and unequalled intelligence and
With many children by you: if, in the course judgement. Ferdinand, my father, king of Spain, was
And process of this time, you can report, thought to be one of the wisest princes to have ruled Spain
40 And prove it too, against mine honour aught, for many years. Undoubtedly they gathered wise advisers
My bond to wedlock, or my love and duty, from every country to debate this business and they
Against your sacred person, in God's name, thought it would be legal for us to marry. So I humbly ask
Turn me away; and let the foul'st contempt you, sir, to wait until I can be advised by my friends in
Shut door upon me, and so give me up Spain. I will beg for their advice. If not, in the name of God, I
45 To the sharp'st kind of justice. Please you sir, hope you will do what gives you pleasure!
The king, your father, was reputed for
A prince most prudent, of an excellent
And unmatch'd wit and judgment: Ferdinand,
My father, king of Spain, was reckon'd one
50 The wisest prince that there had reign'd by many
A year before: it is not to be question'd
That they had gather'd a wise council to them
Of every realm, that did debate this business,
Who deem'd our marriage lawful: wherefore I humbly
55 Beseech you, sir, to spare me, till I may
Be by my friends in Spain advised; whose counsel
I will implore: if not, i' the name of God,
Your pleasure be fulfill'd!

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

You have here, lady, Lady, you have your choice of these wise scholars here.
60 And of your choice, these reverend fathers; men They're men of unmatched honesty and learning. They're
Of singular integrity and learning, the best in the country, assembled to argue the case for
Yea, the elect o' the land, who are assembled you. So it won't help you to keep asking the court for this; it
To plead your cause: it shall be therefore bootless won't help you either by making you feel better or solving
That longer you desire the court; as well the problem worrying the king.
65 For your own quiet, as to rectify
What is unsettled in the king.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

His grace The cardinal has spoken the truth well. So, ma'am, this
Hath spoken well and justly: therefore, madam, royal trial should go on. With no more delay, let the
It's fit this royal session do proceed; arguments be made and heard.
70 And that, without delay, their arguments
Be now produced and heard.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Lord cardinal, Lord cardinal, I speak to you.
To you I speak.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Your pleasure, madam? What would you like, ma'am?

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

75 Sir, Sir, I'm about to cry. But, considering that I am a queen, or
I am about to weep; but, thinking that at least have thought I was for a long time (certainly I am
We are a queen, or long have dream'd so, certain

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The daughter of a king, my drops of tears the daughter of a king), I'll turn my teardrops into fiery
I'll turn to sparks of fire. sparks.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

80 Be patient yet. Be patient.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

I will, when you are humble; nay, before, I will, when you are humble. No, before that, or God will
Or God will punish me. I do believe, punish me because that will never happen. I have strong
Induced by potent circumstances, that reasons to believe you're my enemy, and I say you will not
You are mine enemy, and make my challenge be my judge. You are the one who started this trouble
85 You shall not be my judge: for it is you between my husband and me, which I hope God will put an 1 The extended metaphor in the
Have blown this coal betwixt my lord and me; end to 1 ! So I say again, I hate, yes, I absolutely refuse you original text (involving "sparks," a
Which God's dew quench! Therefore I say again, as my judge. Again, I think you are my worst enemy and not "coal," and "dew") is that Katharine's
I utterly abhor, yea, from my soul at all truthful. trial is a fire that Wolsey has started,
and God will have to put it out with his
Refuse you for my judge; whom, yet once more, mercy, which she imagines as dew.
90 I hold my most malicious foe, and think not
At all a friend to truth.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

I do profess I think you don't sound like yourself. You've always been
You speak not like yourself; who ever yet kind and good-natured and seemed wiser than other
Have stood to charity, and display'd the effects women. Ma'am, you're treating me badly. I don't have any
95 Of disposition gentle, and of wisdom anger towards you and I don't want to treat you or anyone
O'ertopping woman's power. Madam, you do me wrong: unjustly. What I've done and will do is allowed by a warrant
I have no spleen against you; nor injustice from the holy council, the whole holy council, of Rome. You
For you or any: how far I have proceeded, accuse me of starting this trouble. I deny it. The king is here.
Or how far further shall, is warranted If he knows that I'm lying about what I did, he can rightly
100 By a commission from the consistory, punish me for my lie! Yes, he can punish me as much for
Yea, the whole consistory of Rome. You charge me lying as you have punished me for being true to him. If he
That I have blown this coal: I do deny it: knows that I am innocent of what you say, he knows you
The king is present: if it be known to him have been unfair to me. So it's up to him to help me. That
That I gainsay my deed, how may he wound, help is, to stop you from believing this about me. Before he
105 And worthily, my falsehood! yea, as much says anything about this, I beg you, ma'am, to change your
As you have done my truth. If he know mind and not say what you said again.
That I am free of your report, he knows
I am not of your wrong. Therefore in him
It lies to cure me: and the cure is, to
110 Remove these thoughts from you: the which before
His highness shall speak in, I do beseech
You, gracious madam, to unthink your speaking
And to say so no more.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

My lord, my lord, My lord, my lord, I am a simple woman, much too weak to
115 I am a simple woman, much too weak fight your cleverness. You're quiet and speak humbly, you
To oppose your cunning. You're meek and talk about your position and your job in public quietly and
humble-mouth'd; humbly. But your heart is stuffed with arrogance, anger, and
You sign your place and calling, in full seeming, pride. You have by fortune and with the help of powerful
With meekness and humility; but your heart people risen quickly from the lower class and now you are
120 Is cramm'd with arrogancy, spleen, and pride. in a high enough position that kings are your servants and
You have, by fortune and his highness' favours, your words, which are also your servants, do whatever you
Gone slightly o'er low steps and now are mounted wish them to do. I must tell you, you care more about your
Where powers are your retainers, and your words, own honor than your important religious position. Again, I
Domestics to you, serve your will as't please say I refuse you as my judge. And here, before all of you, I
125 Yourself pronounce their office. I must tell you, appeal to the Pope. I'll bring my whole case to him and be
You tender more your person's honour than judged by him.
Your high profession spiritual: that again
I do refuse you for my judge; and here,
Before you all, appeal unto the pope,
130 To bring my whole cause 'fore his holiness,
And to be judged by him.

She curtsies to KING HENRY VIII, and offers to depart She curtsies to KING HENRY VIII and starts to leave.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

The queen is obstinate, The queen is stubborn and refuses justice. She's quick to
Stubborn to justice, apt to accuse it, and accuse it and unwilling to be judged by it. This is bad. She's
Disdainful to be tried by't: 'tis not well. going away.
135 She's going away.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Call her again. Call her again.

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CRIER CRIER
Katharine Queen of England, come into the court. Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
Madam, you are call'd back. Ma'am, you are being called back.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

What need you note it? pray you, keep your way: Why do you have to point it out? Please, go away. Come
140 When you are call'd, return. Now, the Lord help, back when you're called. Now, God help me, they're making
They vex me past my patience! Pray you, pass on: me lose my patience! Please, go away. I won't stay. No, nor
I will not tarry; no, nor ever more will I appear in any of their courts anymore about this
Upon this business my appearance make business.
In any of their courts.

Exeunt QUEEN KATHARINE and her Attendants QUEEN KATHARINE and her attendants exit.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

145 Go thy ways, Kate: Go away, Kate. Don't trust anyone in the whole world who
That man i' the world who shall report he has says he has a better wife, because he's lying about that. You
A better wife, let him in nought be trusted, alone would be declared the queen of earthly queens if
For speaking false in that: thou art, alone, your rare good qualities, sweet gentleness, saint-like
If thy rare qualities, sweet gentleness, patience, wife-like actions, obedience, and your other royal
150 Thy meekness saint-like, wife-like government, and holy qualities, could speak for you. She comes from a
Obeying in commanding, and thy parts noble family and she has always acted towards me with
Sovereign and pious else, could speak thee out, true nobility.
The queen of earthly queens: she's noble born;
And, like her true nobility, she has
155 Carried herself towards me.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Most gracious sir, Dear sir, I humbly ask you to declare in front of everyone
In humblest manner I require your highness, whether I first spoke of this business to you or put any
That it shall please you to declare, in hearing doubt in your way that would make you think about it. It is
Of all these ears,-- for where I am robb'd and bound, as though I have been robbed and tied up by being accused
160 There must I be unloosed, although not there of this and I have to be untied, even if not here at once, and
At once and fully satisfied,-- whether ever I repaid for it. Or have I ever spoken the smallest word to you
Did broach this business to your highness; or that led you to question your marriage? Or have I ever said
Laid any scruple in your way, which might something that could hurt her or her character, without
Induce you to the question on't? or ever always also thanking God for giving you such a royal wife?
165 Have to you, but with thanks to God for such
A royal lady, spake one the least word that might
Be to the prejudice of her present state,
Or touch of her good person?

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

My lord cardinal, My lord cardinal, I say you're innocent. Yes, I swear by my
170 I do excuse you; yea, upon mine honour, honor you're innocent of this. You don't need to be told you
I free you from't. You are not to be taught have many enemies who don't know why they're your
That you have many enemies, that know not enemies but, like village dogs, bark when the others do. The
Why they are so, but, like to village-curs, queen has been made angry by some of these. You're
Bark when their fellows do: by some of these innocent. But do you want me to go on making excuses for
175 The queen is put in anger. You're excused: you? You always wanted this business put to rest, never
But will you be more justified? You ever wanted it started, but have often slowed it down. On my
Have wish'd the sleeping of this business; never honor, I'll say that for the good cardinal and clear him of the
desired accusations. Now, I'll be so bold as to ask for your time and
It to be stirr'd; but oft have hinder'd, oft, attention to tell you what made me want to do this. So
180 The passages made toward it: on my honour, listen to how this started. It came about like this. Listen. I
I speak my good lord cardinal to this point, had my first doubt because of some things the Bishop of
And thus far clear him. Now, what moved me to't, Bayonne, then the French ambassador, said, who had been
I will be bold with time and your attention: sent here to talk about a marriage between the Duke of
Then mark the inducement. Thus it came; give heed to't: Orleans and our daughter Mary. During this business,
185 My conscience first received a tenderness, before a decision was made, he, I mean the bishop, asked 2 Katharine was married to Henry
Scruple, and prick, on certain speeches utter'd for a pause. He wanted to let the king his master find out VIII's older brother Arthur for five
By the Bishop of Bayonne, then French ambassador; whether my daughter was legitimate, given my marriage to months, before his untimely death.
Who had been hither sent on the debating the woman who was once my brother's wife 2 . This pause Pope Julius II gave Katharine and
Henry a dispensation in order to
A marriage 'twixt the Duke of Orleans and shook me, entered into my conscience, yes, it almost split marry, on the assumption that the
190 Our daughter Mary: i' the progress of this business, me in two and made my heart tremble. This thought forced marriage of Katharine and Arthur was
Ere a determinate resolution, he, its way into my conscience in such a way that many amazed never consummated (they never had
I mean the bishop, did require a respite; considerations pushed and forced their way in along with it. sex).
Wherein he might the king his lord advertise First, I thought God wasn't happy with me. He had
Whether our daughter were legitimate, commanded nature that, if a male child was conceived in
195 Respecting this our marriage with the dowager, my wife's womb by me, the womb would not give life to him
Sometimes our brother's wife. This respite shook but instead would be his grave. Her male children either
The bosom of my conscience, enter'd me, died where they were conceived or shortly after they were
Yea, with a splitting power, and made to tremble born. So I thought this was a punishment against me and

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The region of my breast; which forced such way, that my kingdom, which deserves the best heir in the world,
200 That many mazed considerings did throng would not get one from me to make it happy. Then I
And press'd in with this caution. First, methought considered the danger my kingdom was in because I didn't
I stood not in the smile of heaven; who had have a child. And that made me groan and suffer. So,
Commanded nature, that my lady's womb, thrown around in my conscience like a ship in a storm, I
If it conceived a male child by me, should came up with this way to fix things that we are all engaged
205 Do no more offices of life to't than in today. That is, I wanted all the holy churchmen and
The grave does to the dead; for her male issue learned academics in the country to cure my conscience,
Or died where they were made, or shortly after which felt sick then and isn't better yet. I began by speaking
This world had air'd them: hence I took a thought, privately with you, my Lord of Lincoln. You remember how
This was a judgment on me; that my kingdom, upset I was when I first spoke to you.
210 Well worthy the best heir o' the world, should not
Be gladded in't by me: then follows, that
I weigh'd the danger which my realms stood in
By this my issue's fail; and that gave to me
Many a groaning throe. Thus hulling in
215 The wild sea of my conscience, I did steer
Toward this remedy, whereupon we are
Now present here together: that's to say,
I meant to rectify my conscience,--which
I then did feel full sick, and yet not well,--
220 By all the reverend fathers of the land
And doctors learn'd: first I began in private
With you, my Lord of Lincoln; you remember
How under my oppression I did reek,
When I first moved you.

LINCOLN LINCOLN
225 Very well, my liege. Very clearly, my king.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

I have spoke long: be pleased yourself to say I have spoken for a long time. Please tell me what you have
How far you satisfied me. done to satisfy my conscience.

LINCOLN LINCOLN
So please your highness, Your highness, the matter was so important and had such
The question did at first so stagger me, terrible consequences that it amazed me at first. I worried I
230 Bearing a state of mighty moment in't was advising you too boldly. I begged you to go about
And consequence of dread, that I committed settling the matter in the way you are now.
The daring'st counsel which I had to doubt;
And did entreat your highness to this course
Which you are running here.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

235 I then moved you, I then convinced you, my Lord of Canterbury, and got your
My Lord of Canterbury; and got your leave approval for summoning these people here. I talked to
To make this present summons: unsolicited every wise person in this courthouse. But particularly I put
I left no reverend person in this court; myself in your hands and did what you advised. So,
But by particular consent proceeded continue. It was not because I disliked my good queen but
240 Under your hands and seals: therefore, go on: because of the terrible reasons I just told you that this is
For no dislike i' the world against the person happening. Just prove our marriage to be legal and I swear
Of the good queen, but the sharp thorny points by my life and my dignity as king that I will be happy to stay
Of my alleged reasons, drive this forward: with her, Katharine my queen, for the rest of my life, sooner
Prove but our marriage lawful, by my life than marry even the best woman in the world.
245 And kingly dignity, we are contented
To wear our mortal state to come with her,
Katharine our queen, before the primest creature
That's paragon'd o' the world.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

So please your highness, Your highness, since the queen is absent it's necessary and
250 The queen being absent, 'tis a needful fitness right to adjourn this trial. Meanwhile someone should be
That we adjourn this court till further day: sent to talk honestly to the queen to convince her not to
Meanwhile must be an earnest motion appeal to the Pope.
Made to the queen, to call back her appeal
She intends unto his holiness.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

255 [Aside] I may perceive [To himself] I can see that these cardinals are playing with
These cardinals trifle with me: I abhor me. I hate the delaying laziness and tricks of Rome. Please
This dilatory sloth and tricks of Rome. come back, my learned and beloved servant Cranmer 3 . 3 Thomas Cranmer was
My learn'd and well-beloved servant, Cranmer, When you come back, I know that my happiness will too. instrumental in building the case for
Prithee, return: with thy approach, I know, the annulment of Henry VIII and
260 My comfort comes along. Break up the court: [To the court] The court is dismissed. I said, go. Katharine's marriage, and would later
become Archbishop of Canterbury
I say, set on.

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(the most senior bishop in the Church

of England).

Exeunt in manner as they entered They exit in the same way they entered.

Act 3, Scene 1
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter QUEEN KATHARINE and her Women, as at work QUEEN KATHARINE and her women enter and appear to
sew.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Take thy lute, wench: my soul grows sad with troubles; Play your lute, girl. My soul is sad. Sing and send them away
Sing, and disperse 'em, if thou canst: leave working. if you can. Stop sewing.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

[singing] [singing]
5 Orpheus with his lute made trees, Orpheus made trees
And the mountain tops that freeze, And the freezing mountain tops
Bow themselves when he did sing: Bow when he sang.
To his music plants and flowers His music made plants and flowers
Ever sprung; as sun and showers Grow as if sun and rain
10 There had made a lasting spring. Had created an eternal Spring there.
Every thing that heard him play, Everything that heard him play,
Even the billows of the sea, Even the waves of the sea,
Hung their heads, and then lay by. Hung their heads then lay down next to him.
In sweet music is such art, Beautiful music makes
15 Killing care and grief of heart Murderous sadness and heartache
Fall asleep, or hearing, die. Fall asleep when they hear it or die.

Enter a Gentleman A GENTLEMAN enters.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

How now! Hello!

GENTLEMAN GENTLEMAN
An't please your grace, the two great cardinals Your grace, the two important cardinals are waiting in your
Wait in the presence. reception room.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

20 Would they speak with me? Do they want to speak to me?

GENTLEMAN GENTLEMAN
They will'd me say so, madam. They asked me to say they do, madam.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Pray their graces Ask them to come near.
To come near.

Exit Gentleman The GENTLEMAN exits.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

25 What can be their business What can their business be with me, a poor weak woman
With me, a poor weak woman, fall'n from favour? out of favor with the king? I don't like them coming here.
I do not like their coming. Now I think on't, Now I think about it, they should be good men and their
They should be good men; their affairs as righteous: business should be good, too, but appearances are
But all hoods make not monks. deceiving and just wearing a monk's habit doesn't make
you holy.

Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS enter.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

30 Peace to your highness! Hello, your highness!

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QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Your graces find me here part of a housewife, You can see that I'm a part of a housewife. I want to be a 1 Presumably, in wishing to be a
I would be all, against the worst may happen. whole one 1 , whatever happens. What do you want from whole "housewife," the queen means
What are your pleasures with me, reverend lords? me, wise lords? that she is separated from her
husband and so is not a complete
wife.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

May it please you noble madam, to withdraw Please, ma'am, if we can go into your private room, we will
35 Into your private chamber, we shall give you tell you the whole reason we came.
The full cause of our coming.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Speak it here: Say it here. I haven't done anything yet that has to be
There's nothing I have done yet, o' my conscience, whispered about in a corner. I wish all other women could
Deserves a corner: would all other women say that as truly as I can! My lords, I don't care if everyone
40 Could speak this with as free a soul as I do! talks about and sees my actions or if those actions are
My lords, I care not, so much I am happy attacked by envious and disapproving people, because I'm
Above a number, if my actions so much luckier than most people in knowing my life is
Were tried by every tongue, every eye saw 'em, virtuous. If you have business to do with me and my
Envy and base opinion set against 'em, marriage, say it boldly. Truth should be spoken openly.
45 I know my life so even. If your business
Seek me out, and that way I am wife in,
Out with it boldly: truth loves open dealing.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Tanta est erga te mentis integritas, regina Your conduct is so honorable, most serene queen-- 2 2 Cardinal Wolsey speaks these
serenissima,-- words in Latin, perhaps to feign
reverence for the queen's virtue, but
certainly to show that he is more
learned and powerful than she is.
Using a language other than English
also draws attention to her status as a
foreigner. Though she is Queen of
England, she was born in Spain.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

50 O, good my lord, no Latin; My good lord, don't speak Latin. I haven't been so lazy since
I am not such a truant since my coming, coming here that I don't know the language of the country I
As not to know the language I have lived in: have been living in. Speaking in a foreign language makes
A strange tongue makes my cause more strange, my cause seem more strange and suspicious. Please, speak
suspicious; English. There are some people here who will thank you for
55 Pray, speak in English: here are some will thank you, their mistress's sake if you tell the truth. Believe me, she
If you speak truth, for their poor mistress' sake; has been treated very badly. Lord cardinal, even the worst 3 In saying that her worst sin can be
Believe me, she has had much wrong: lord cardinal, sin I have ever committed can be forgiven 3 in English. "absolved in English," the queen
The willing'st sin I ever yet committed refers to the status of Latin as a
May be absolved in English. religious language. She has
committed no sins bad enough to
need to speak of them in the language
of the Church in order to be absolved
of them.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

60 Noble lady, Noble lady, I am sorry you are so suspicious about my
I am sorry my integrity should breed, honesty and my service of your majesty and you, when I
And service to his majesty and you, meant to serve you faithfully. We don't come to accuse you
So deep suspicion, where all faith was meant. or taint your honor, which every good person blesses, or to
We come not by the way of accusation, make you sad in any way since you are already too sad,
65 To taint that honour every good tongue blesses, good lady. We just want to know your thoughts in the great
Nor to betray you any way to sorrow, quarrel between you and the king and to tell you like open
You have too much, good lady; but to know and honest men should our true opinions, and comfort
How you stand minded in the weighty difference you.
Between the king and you; and to deliver,
70 Like free and honest men, our just opinions
And comforts to your cause.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

Most honour'd madam, Honored lady, because of his noble character and the
My Lord of York, out of his noble nature, obedience he still wants to show you, my Lord of York has
Zeal and obedience he still bore your grace, forgotten your recent criticism of his honesty and him,
75 Forgetting, like a good man your late censure which went too far. He and I offer you his service and advice
Both of his truth and him, which was too far, as a peace offering.
Offers, as I do, in a sign of peace,
His service and his counsel.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

[Aside] To betray me.-- [To herself] To betray me.--
80 My lords, I thank you both for your good wills;

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Ye speak like honest men; pray God, ye prove so! [To the CARDINALS] My lords, I thank both of you for your
But how to make ye suddenly an answer, kindness. You speak like honest men. I pray to God you turn
In such a point of weight, so near mine honour,-- out to be honest men! But I don't know how to answer you
More near my life, I fear,--with my weak wit, immediately about such an important matter that threatens
85 And to such men of gravity and learning, my honor--and my life even more, I'm afraid--since my
In truth, I know not. I was set at work mind is weak and you are such serious and learned men. I
Among my maids: full little, God knows, looking was sewing with my maids and didn't expect such men or
Either for such men or such business. such business, God knows. Your graces, for the sake of the
For her sake that I have been,--for I feel woman I have been--because I feel my power dying--let me
90 The last fit of my greatness,-- good your graces, have time and a lawyer on my side. I am a friendless and
Let me have time and counsel for my cause: hopeless woman!
Alas, I am a woman, friendless, hopeless!

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Madam, you wrong the king's love with these fears: Ma'am, you're being unfair to the king's love with this fear.
Your hopes and friends are infinite. You have infinite hopes and friends.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

95 In England The ones in England won't help me. Can you imagine any
But little for my profit: can you think, lords, Englishman daring to give me advice, my lords? Or be
That any Englishman dare give me counsel? known to be my friend and side with me against the king,
Or be a known friend, 'gainst his highness' pleasure, even if he is desperate to do the right thing, and continue
Though he be grown so desperate to be honest, living here as a subject? No, the friends who will understand
100 And live a subject? Nay, forsooth, my friends, my suffering and whom I have to trust don't live here. They
They that must weigh out my afflictions, are, like all my other comforts, far away from here, in my
They that my trust must grow to, live not here: own country, lords.
They are, as all my other comforts, far hence
In mine own country, lords.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

105 I would your grace I wish you would stop being sad and take my advice.
Would leave your griefs, and take my counsel.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

How, sir? How, sir?

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

Put your main cause into the king's protection; Let the king take care of this business for you. He's loving
He's loving and most gracious: 'twill be much and very generous. It will be much better both for your
110 Both for your honour better and your cause; honor and your case. Because if you go to trial over this,
For if the trial of the law o'ertake ye, you'll go away disgraced.
You'll part away disgraced.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

He tells you rightly. He's telling you the truth.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Ye tell me what ye wish for both,--my ruin: You tell me to do what will get you what you both want--for
115 Is this your Christian counsel? out upon ye! me to be destroyed. Is this your Christian advice? Get out!
Heaven is above all yet; there sits a judge God is still in charge. He is a judge no king can corrupt.
That no king can corrupt.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

Your rage mistakes us. Your anger makes you misjudge us.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

The more shame for ye: holy men I thought ye, You should be all the more ashamed. I thought you were
120 Upon my soul, two reverend cardinal virtues; holy men, I swear, as if you were two wise virtues instead of 4 The cardinals--Wolsey in
But cardinal sins and hollow hearts I fear ye: men. But I fear that you two cardinals are actually deadly particular--is compared to many
Mend 'em, for shame, my lords. Is this your comfort? sins 4 and have cruel hearts. Fix your hearts, my lords. You things in this play. The constant
The cordial that ye bring a wretched lady, should be ashamed. Is this how you're trying to comfort metaphors highlight how slippery his
nature is--how difficult it is to
A woman lost among ye, laugh'd at, scorn'd? me? Is this the help you bring to a poor lady lost in this outsmart him or figure out what he's
125 I will not wish ye half my miseries; country, laughed at, and hated? I won't wish that you suffer really thinking.
I have more charity: but say, I warn'd ye; half of what I suffer. I am too kind for that. But I have
Take heed, for heaven's sake, take heed, lest at once warned you. Be careful, for heaven's sake be careful, or all
The burthen of my sorrows fall upon ye. of my suffering will fall on you at once.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Madam, this is a mere distraction; Ma'am, you're talking nonsense. You're turning our good
130 You turn the good we offer into envy. intentions towards you into bad ones.

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QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Ye turn me into nothing: woe upon ye You're turning me, a queen, into nothing. Damn you and all
And all such false professors! would you have me-- lying tricksters! If you have any justice or pity or are
If you have any justice, any pity; anything more than the clothes of churchmen, do you want
If ye be any thing but churchmen's habits-- me to put my cause into the hands of someone who hates
135 Put my sick cause into his hands that hates me? me? He already banished me from his bed and his love all
Alas, has banish'd me his bed already, too long ago! I am old, my lords, and the only bond I have
His love, too long ago! I am old, my lords, to him is my obedience. What more can happen to me that
And all the fellowship I hold now with him is worse than this suffering? You're scheming to make me
Is only my obedience. What can happen suffer like this.
140 To me above this wretchedness? all your studies
Make me a curse like this.

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

Your fears are worse. Your fears are worse than the reality.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Have I lived thus long--let me speak myself, Haven't I lived this long--let me speak for myself, since a
Since virtue finds no friends--a wife, a true one? virtuous person can't find any friends to speak for her--as a
145 A woman, I dare say without vain-glory, wife, and an honest one? As a woman, I can say without
Never yet branded with suspicion? bragging, who has never been suspected of anything?
Have I with all my full affections Haven't I always loved the king completely, second only to
Still met the king? loved him next heaven? God? And obeyed him? Haven't I been so fond of him he
obey'd him? almost became my god and I almost forgot to pray because
150 Been, out of fondness, superstitious to him? I was focusing on making him happy? And am I rewarded
Almost forgot my prayers to content him? with this? This is not good, lords. Bring me a woman true to
And am I thus rewarded? 'tis not well, lords. her husband, one whose only joy was to make him happy,
Bring me a constant woman to her husband, and compared to that woman who has done everything she
One that ne'er dream'd a joy beyond his pleasure; could, I have one more quality, which is that I have had
155 And to that woman, when she has done most, enormous patience.
Yet will I add an honour, a great patience.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Madam, you wander from the good we aim at. Ma'am, you're getting distracted from the good things we're
offering you.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

My lord, I dare not make myself so guilty, My lord, I wouldn't dare to commit the sin of willingly giving
To give up willingly that noble title up the noble title I gained when your master married me.
160 Your master wed me to: nothing but death Nothing but death will ever divorce me from my dignity and
Shall e'er divorce my dignities. power.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Pray, hear me. Please listen to me.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Would I had never trod this English earth, I wish I had never set foot on this English land or been
Or felt the flatteries that grow upon it! flattered by the people in it! You have angels' faces, but
165 Ye have angels' faces, but heaven knows your hearts. heaven knows what you're really like. What will become of
What will become of me now, wretched lady! poor me? I am the unhappiest woman alive.
I am the most unhappy woman living.
Alas, poor wenches, where are now your fortunes! [To her attendants] Poor girls, where are your fortunes
Shipwreck'd upon a kingdom, where no pity, now? You're shipwrecked in this country where there's no
170 No friend, no hope; no kindred weep for me; pity, no friend to us, and no hope. No family members cry
Almost no grave allow'd me: like the lily, for me. There's barely a grave allowed for me. Like a lily that
That once was mistress of the field and flourish'd, once flourished as the queen of a field, I'll hang my head
I'll hang my head and perish. and die.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

If your grace If you could just be convinced that we mean well you
175 Could but be brought to know our ends are honest, wouldn't feel as bad. Why would we treat you badly, good
You'ld feel more comfort: why should we, good lady, lady? Our positions and our profession prevent that. We're
Upon what cause, wrong you? alas, our places, supposed to cure suffering like this, not cause it. For
The way of our profession is against it: goodness' sake, think about what you're doing. You could
We are to cure such sorrows, not to sow 'em. hurt yourself, in fact you could cause the king to cut himself
180 For goodness' sake, consider what you do; off from you completely, if you keep acting this way. Kings
How you may hurt yourself, ay, utterly love obedience so much they kiss obedient people, but
Grow from the king's acquaintance, by this carriage. they grow as violent as storms towards stubborn ones. I
The hearts of princes kiss obedience, know you have a gentle, noble personality and a calm,
So much they love it; but to stubborn spirits reasonable mind. Please, consider us to be what we claim
185 They swell, and grow as terrible as storms. to be: peace-makers, your friends, and your servants.
I know you have a gentle, noble temper,
A soul as even as a calm: pray, think us
Those we profess, peace-makers, friends, and servants.

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CARDINAL CAMPEIUS CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

Madam, you'll find it so. You wrong your virtues Ma'am, you'll find that we are those things. You're betraying
190 With these weak women's fears: a noble spirit, your virtues by being afraid like a weak woman. A noble
As yours was put into you, ever casts mind like the one you have throws out suspicions like this
Such doubts, as false coin, from it. The king loves as if they were fake coins. The king loves you. Be careful not
you; to lose his love. As for us, if you will trust us with your
Beware you lose it not: for us, if you please business, we are ready to work as hard as we can to help
195 To trust us in your business, we are ready you.
To use our utmost studies in your service.

QUEEN KATHARINE QUEEN KATHARINE

Do what ye will, my lords: and, pray, forgive me, Do what you want, my lords. Please forgive me if I have
If I have used myself unmannerly; been rude. You know I am a woman and don't have the
You know I am a woman, lacking wit brains to answer such people as you politely. Please, send
200 To make a seemly answer to such persons. my best to the king. I still love him and will pray for him for
Pray, do my service to his majesty: the rest of my life. Come, wise priests, give me your advice.
He has my heart yet; and shall have my prayers Now I'm begging. When I set foot in this country, I didn't
While I shall have my life. Come, reverend fathers, know I would pay such a price for the honors done to me.
Bestow your counsels on me: she now begs,
205 That little thought, when she set footing here,
She should have bought her dignities so dear.

Exeunt They exit.

Act 3, Scene 2
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, SURREY, and Chamberlain NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, SURREY, and CHAMBERLAIN enter.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
If you will now unite in your complaints, If you all make your complaints together and stick to them,
And force them with a constancy, the cardinal the cardinal can't resist them. If you fail to take this
Cannot stand under them: if you omit opportunity, I can't promise you'll be safe from suffering
The offer of this time, I cannot promise more disgrace than you already have.
5 But that you shall sustain moe new disgraces,
With these you bear already.

SURREY SURREY
I am joyful I am happy to have the smallest opportunity to be
To meet the least occasion that may give me reminded to take revenge for the death of my father-in-law,
Remembrance of my father-in-law, the duke, the duke.
10 To be revenged on him.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
Which of the peers What noble hasn't been criticized by him, or at least
Have uncontemn'd gone by him, or at least ignored? When did he have any consideration for a noble
Strangely neglected? when did he regard other than himself?
The stamp of nobleness in any person
15 Out of himself?

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
My lords, you speak your pleasures: My lords, you say what you want. I know what he deserves
What he deserves of you and me I know; from you and me. I am afraid we can't do anything to him,
What we can do to him, though now the time even with this opportunity. If you can't stop him getting to
Gives way to us, I much fear. If you cannot the king, don't try anything against him, because he can
20 Bar his access to the king, never attempt charm the king when he speaks.
Any thing on him; for he hath a witchcraft
Over the king in's tongue.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
O, fear him not; Oh, don't be afraid of that. He doesn't have that power
His spell in that is out: the king hath found anymore. The king has found out something against him
25 Matter against him that for ever mars that will stop his words from ever being convincing. No, the
The honey of his language. No, he's settled, king's firm in his anger and will not let it go.
Not to come off, in his displeasure.

SURREY SURREY
Sir, Sir, I wish I could hear news this good every hour.
I should be glad to hear such news as this
30

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Once every hour.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Believe it, this is true: Believe me, this is true. His plots against the divorce
In the divorce his contrary proceedings procedures were revealed and he comes off as badly as I
Are all unfolded wherein he appears could wish my enemy to.
As I would wish mine enemy.

SURREY SURREY
35 How came How were his plots revealed?
His practises to light?

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
Most strangely. Very strangely.

SURREY SURREY
O, how, how? How? How?

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
The cardinal's letters to the pope miscarried, The cardinal's letters to the pope went astray and were
40 And came to the eye o' the king: wherein was read, seen by the king. In them the cardinal begged the Pope to
How that the cardinal did entreat his holiness put off his judgement on the divorce. If it took place, he said
To stay the judgment o' the divorce; for if "I see that my king's affections have been caught by the
It did take place, 'I do,' quoth he, 'perceive queen's servant, Lady Anne Bullen."
My king is tangled in affection to
45 A creature of the queen's, Lady Anne Bullen.'

SURREY SURREY
Has the king this? Does the king have this letter?

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
Believe it. Yes.

SURREY SURREY
Will this work? Will this work?

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
The king in this perceives him, how he coasts The king sees his true nature in this, how he changes his
50 And hedges his own way. But in this point allegiances and works for himself. But in this case his plots
All his tricks founder, and he brings his physic have failed and he is too late to make a difference, like a
After his patient's death: the king already doctor who brings medicine after a patient's death: the king
Hath married the fair lady. has already married the beautiful lady.

SURREY SURREY
Would he had! I wish he had!

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
55 May you be happy in your wish, my lord I hope you're happy with your wish, my lord, because it's
For, I profess, you have it. been granted.

SURREY SURREY
Now, all my joy I wish them the best in their marriage!
Trace the conjunction!

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
My amen to't! Amen!

NORFOLK NORFOLK
60 All men's! All men say amen!

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
There's order given for her coronation: Her coronation has been arranged. This is still recent and
Marry, this is yet but young, and may be left shouldn't be spoken to everyone. But my lords, she's a
To some ears unrecounted. But, my lords, good person with all the best qualities of mind and body.
She is a gallant creature, and complete I'm sure she'll bless this land with something good 1 1 The "blessing" that will fall from
65 In mind and feature: I persuade me, from her which will go down in history. Anne is her daughter Elizabeth.
Will fall some blessing to this land, which shall
In it be memorised.

SURREY SURREY
But, will the king But will the king let the cardinal get away with his letter?
Digest this letter of the cardinal's? God forbid!
70

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The Lord forbid!

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Marry, amen! Amen!

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
No, no; No, no. There are more irritating things going on that will
There be moe wasps that buzz about his nose make him even angrier. Cardinal Campeius has run away to
Will make this sting the sooner. Cardinal Campeius Rome without saying goodbye and has left the king's
75 Is stol'n away to Rome; hath ta'en no leave; business unmanaged. He's been sent as the cardinal's
Has left the cause o' the king unhandled; and agent to carry out his plot. I assure you the king was
Is posted, as the agent of our cardinal, annoyed and cried out "Ha!" when that happened.
To second all his plot. I do assure you
The king cried Ha! at this.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
80 Now, God incense him, May God make him angry and have him cry "Ha!" louder.
And let him cry Ha! louder!

NORFOLK NORFOLK
But, my lord, But my lord, when does Cranmer come back?
When returns Cranmer?

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
He is return'd in his opinions; which It's as if he has returned because he has sent back his
85 Have satisfied the king for his divorce, arguments which convinced the king and almost all the
Together with all famous colleges famous academics in Christian countries that this divorce
Almost in Christendom: shortly, I believe, should happen. I think his second marriage will be
His second marriage shall be publish'd, and announced soon as well as her coronation. Katharine will
Her coronation. Katharine no more be called princess dowager and Prince Arthur's widow, not
90 Shall be call'd queen, but princess dowager queen.
And widow to Prince Arthur.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
This same Cranmer's That Cranmer's a good man and has worked hard to do the
A worthy fellow, and hath ta'en much pain king's business.
In the king's business.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
95 He has; and we shall see him He has, and he'll be made an archbishop for it.
For it an archbishop.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
So I hear. So I hear.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
'Tis so. It's true. The cardinal!
The cardinal!
100
Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY and CROMWELL CARDINAL WOLSEY and CROMWELL 2 enter.
2 Thomas Cromwell served as an
adviser to Cardinal Wolsey, and his
reputation managed to survive
Wolsey's downfall. He became chief
minister to King Henry VIII in 1532, but
was later declared a traitor and was
executed in 1540.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Observe, observe, he's moody. Watch, watch, he's upset.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

The packet, Cromwell. The letters, Cromwell. Did you give them to the king?
Gave't you the king?

CROMWELL CROMWELL
To his own hand, in's bedchamber. I handed them to him myself, in his bedroom.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

105 Look'd he o' the inside of the paper? Did he look inside?

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CROMWELL CROMWELL
Presently He opened them immediately. He looked at the first
He did unseal them: and the first he view'd, seriously and you could tell he was paying attention. He
He did it with a serious mind; a heed asked you to come see him here this morning.
Was in his countenance. You he bade
110 Attend him here this morning.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Is he ready Is he ready to come here?
To come abroad?

CROMWELL CROMWELL
I think, by this he is. I think by this time he is.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Leave me awhile. Leave me here for a while.
115
Exit CROMWELL CROMWELL exits.

[Aside] [To himself] It will be the Duchess of Alencon, the French

It shall be to the Duchess of Alencon, King's sister. He will marry her. Anne Bullen! No, I won't let
The French king's sister: he shall marry her. him have any Anne Bullens. He'll get nothing more from
Anne Bullen! No; I'll no Anne Bullens for him: that except a beautiful face. Bullen! No, we won't have any
120 There's more in't than fair visage. Bullen! Bullens. I hope I'll hear from Rome soon. He's made her
No, we'll no Bullens. Speedily I wish Marchioness of Pembroke!
To hear from Rome. The Marchioness of Pembroke!

NORFOLK NORFOLK
He's discontented. He's unhappy.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
May be, he hears the king Maybe he's heard that the king is angry at him.
125 Does whet his anger to him.

SURREY SURREY
Sharp enough, I hope he's angry enough to punish him properly!
Lord, for thy justice!

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

[Aside] The late queen's gentlewoman, [To himself] The last queen's lady in waiting, a knight's
a knight's daughter, daughter, becoming her mistress's mistress! The queen's
130 To be her mistress' mistress! the queen's queen! queen! This is like a candle that's not burning properly. I'll
This candle burns not clear: 'tis I must snuff it; have to be the one to put it out. So out it goes. So what if I
Then out it goes. What though I know her virtuous know she's virtuous and deserving? I still know she's an 3 Martin Luther was one of the most
And well deserving? yet I know her for irritable Lutheran 3 and it would not be good for me if she important Protestant reformers, who
A spleeny Lutheran; and not wholesome to were at the side of the king, who's already difficult to order famously nailed his "95 Theses" of
135 Our cause, that she should lie i' the bosom of around. Again, a heretic has sprung up, a terrible one, question and debate against the
Catholic Church to the door of
Our hard-ruled king. Again, there is sprung up Cranmer 4 . He's crawled into the king's favor and is telling Wittenberg Castle Church in 1517.
An heretic, an arch one, Cranmer; one his fortune for him. Wolsey's speech here implies that his
Hath crawl'd into the favour of the king, advice for the king has brought about
And is his oracle. religious divisions he did not intend.

4 Remember that Thomas Cranmer

built the case for Henry's annulment
from Katharine, and that he would
become Archbishop of Canterbury.
This made him the senior bishop in
the new Church of England, the
church created in part because Henry
could not obtain the divorce he
sought within the bounds of the
Catholic Church.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
140 He is vex'd at something. He's annoyed at something.

SURREY SURREY
I would 'twere something that would fret the string, I wish it were something bad enough to break his heart 5 ! 5 The "heart" is imagined as having
The master-cord on's heart! strings, including a "master-cord" or
main string that would break under
the influence of unpleasant emotions.
Fretting has both the modern
meaning of being worried and upset
about something as well as the
meaning of wearing something away
by rubbing, which is why the
cardinal's emotion is imagined as

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wearing away the string that makes

his heart work.

Enter KING HENRY VIII, reading of a schedule, and LOVELL KING HENRY VIII, reading a paper, and LOVELL enter.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
The king, the king! The king, the king!

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

145 What piles of wealth hath he accumulated He's piled up so much wealth for himself! And he seems to
To his own portion! and what expense by the hour spend so much money every hour! How on earth does he
Seems to flow from him! How, i' the name of thrift, collect all this wealth, in the name of economy? My lords,
Does he rake this together! Now, my lords, have you seen the cardinal?
Saw you the cardinal?

NORFOLK NORFOLK
150 My lord, we have My lord, we have been standing here watching him. There's
Stood here observing him: some strange commotion something upsetting him. He bites his lips and jumps, stops
Is in his brain: he bites his lip, and starts; suddenly, looks at the ground, then puts his finger to his
Stops on a sudden, looks upon the ground, forehead and starts walking quickly. Then he stops again,
Then lays his finger on his temple, straight hits his chest hard, and looks up at the moon. We have seen
155 Springs out into fast gait; then stops again, him put himself into very strange positions.
Strikes his breast hard, and anon he casts
His eye against the moon: in most strange postures
We have seen him set himself.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

It may well be; It may well be. His mind is rebelling. This morning he sent
160 There is a mutiny in's mind. This morning me state documents to look at, as I asked. And do you know
Papers of state he sent me to peruse, what I found there--left there accidentally, I bet? An
As I required: and wot you what I found inventory that went like this: a list of his silver plates, his
There,--on my conscience, put unwittingly? treasure, rich fabrics, and household ornaments. They're so
Forsooth, an inventory, thus importing; expensive that no subject can possess such wealth.
165 The several parcels of his plate, his treasure,
Rich stuffs, and ornaments of household; which
I find at such proud rate, that it out-speaks
Possession of a subject.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
It's heaven's will: It's God's will. Some angel put this paper among the others
170 Some spirit put this paper in the packet, so you would see it.
To bless your eye withal.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

If we did think If I thought he were thinking about something above the
His contemplation were above the earth, earth, contemplating something holy, I would let him think.
And fix'd on spiritual object, he should still But I am afraid he's thinking about earthly things that aren't
175 Dwell in his musings: but I am afraid worth serious consideration.
His thinkings are below the moon, not worth
His serious considering.

KING HENRY VIII takes his seat; whispers LOVELL, who goes to KING HENRY VIII sits and whispers to LOVELL, who goes to
CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Heaven forgive me! Heaven forgive me! May God bless you forever, your
Ever God bless your highness! highness!

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

180 Good my lord, My lord, you're full of heavenly treasure and carry the
You are full of heavenly stuff, and bear the inventory inventory of your best qualities in your mind. You were
Of your best graces in your mind; the which reading that over just now. You barely have time to steal a
You were now running o'er: you have scarce time short break from your spiritual thoughts to take care of
To steal from spiritual leisure a brief span earthly business. I think you're bad at managing your affairs
185 To keep your earthly audit: sure, in that but I'm glad you're my companion.
I deem you an ill husband, and am glad
To have you therein my companion.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Sir, Sir, I have a time for holy ceremonies, a time to think about
For holy offices I have a time; a time the state business I do, and nature requires me, her weak
190 To think upon the part of business which son, to take some time to take care of my body in the same
I bear i' the state; and nature does require way she requires that of all my fellow men.

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Her times of preservation, which perforce

I, her frail son, amongst my brethren mortal,
Must give my tendence to.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

195 You have said well. You have spoken well.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

And ever may your highness yoke together, I will give you good reason, your highness, for always 6 In saying that he "yokes" (in the
As I will lend you cause, my doing well associating 6 my speaking well with my acting well! original text) or links his "doing well"
With my well saying! and saying well, Wolsey means that he
doesn't make empty promises. He
acts as well as he speaks.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

'Tis well said again; That's well said again. And it's a kind of good action to
200 And 'tis a kind of good deed to say well: speak well, but words aren't actions. My father loved you.
And yet words are no deeds. My father loved you: He said he did. And by his action of giving you a cardinal's
He said he did; and with his deed did crown crown, he showed that he spoke the truth. Since I inherited
His word upon you. Since I had my office, the throne I have confided in you. I have not just employed
I have kept you next my heart; have not alone you in important business that would be profitable, but
205 Employ'd you where high profits might come home, parted with some of my own money to give you gifts.
But pared my present havings, to bestow
My bounties upon you.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

[Aside] What should this mean? [To himself] What does this mean?

SURREY SURREY
[Aside] The Lord increase this business! [To himself] May God bless this!

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

210 Have I not made you, Haven't I made you the most important man in the
The prime man of the state? I pray you, tell me, country? Please, tell me if you think what I say now isn't
If what I now pronounce you have found true: true. And if you can confess it, tell me whether you owe me
And, if you may confess it, say withal, or not. What do you say?
If you are bound to us or no. What say you?

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

215 My sovereign, I confess your royal graces, My king, I confess the royal gifts you gave me every day
Shower'd on me daily, have been more than could have been more than I could ever pay back, although I tried
My studied purposes requite; which went harder than anyone. I have done everything I could to pay
Beyond all man's endeavours: my endeavours you back, but less than I wish I could. I have wanted 7 Wolsey's gift for language is
Have ever come too short of my desires, everything I wanted 7 only for your good and the good of starting to unravel. His metaphors are
220 Yet filed with my abilities: mine own ends the country. I can only give you loyal thanks, my prayers for intricate throughout the play, but here
Have been mine so that evermore they pointed you, and my loyalty which is always growing and always he's just repeating and confusing
himself.
To the good of your most sacred person and will until death kills it like winter kills plants, in return for
The profit of the state. For your great graces the great gifts you've heaped on me, which I don't deserve.
Heap'd upon me, poor undeserver, I
225 Can nothing render but allegiant thanks,
My prayers to heaven for you, my loyalty,
Which ever has and ever shall be growing,
Till death, that winter, kill it.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Fairly answer'd; Well answered. You've showed how a loyal and obedient
230 A loyal and obedient subject is subject would answer. The honor of the response repays
Therein illustrated: the honour of it the effort that went into it just as evil is its own punishment.
Does pay the act of it; as, i' the contrary, I presume that because I have given you more gifts, loved
The foulness is the punishment. I presume you more, and given you more power and honor than
That, as my hand has open'd bounty to you, anyone else, your hand, heart, brain, and all your actions
235 My heart dropp'd love, my power rain'd honour, more should be more loyal to me than anyone else's. Not
On you than any; so your hand and heart, because it is your duty, but because you love me.
Your brain, and every function of your power,
Should, notwithstanding that your bond of duty,
As 'twere in love's particular, be more
240 To me, your friend, than any.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

I do profess I swear that I have always worked for your good, your
That for your highness' good I ever labour'd highness, more than my own. That will be true even if the
More than mine own; that am, have, and will be-- whole world abandons their duty to you completely or if as
Though all the world should crack their duty to you, many dangers surround us as it's possible to imagine, and
245 And throw it from their soul; though perils did more horrible than one could imagine. Still my obedience,
Abound, as thick as thought could make 'em, and like a rock standing against a pushing river, would stand in

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Appear in forms more horrid,-- yet my duty, the way of this wild river of dangers and remain firmly
As doth a rock against the chiding flood, obedient to you.
Should the approach of this wild river break,
250 And stand unshaken yours.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

'Tis nobly spoken: That's nobly spoken. Notice, lords, he has a loyal heart.
Take notice, lords, he has a loyal breast, You've heard him show 8 it. Read this. 8 To open your "breast" or heart
For you have seen him open't. Read o'er this; means to speak the truth and reveal
everything. Henry is being ironic, as in
fact Wolsey's words are lies that do
not reveal anything about his heart.

Giving him papers KING HENRY VIII gives WOLSEY the letters.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

255 And after, this: and then to breakfast with And read this afterwards. Then go to breakfast with
What appetite you have. whatever appetite you have left.

Exit KING HENRY VIII, frowning upon CARDINAL WOLSEY: the Nobles KING HENRY VIII exits, frowning at CARDINAL WOLSEY. The
throng after him, smiling and whispering nobles rush after him, smiling and whispering.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

What should this mean? What does this mean? Why is he suddenly angry? How have
What sudden anger's this? how have I reap'd it? I deserved it? He left me frowning as if he wanted to destroy
260 He parted frowning from me, as if ruin me with his eyes. An angry lion looks like that at a bold
Leap'd from his eyes: so looks the chafed lion hunter that stabbed him. Then he kills him. I must read this
Upon the daring huntsman that has gall'd him; paper. I'm afraid it will tell me why he's angry. It does. This
Then makes him nothing. I must read this paper; paper has ruined me. It's the list of all the huge wealth I
I fear, the story of his anger. 'Tis so; have piled up for my plots, to become Pope and pay my
265 This paper has undone me: 'tis the account friends in Rome. What carelessness! I'm a fool who
Of all that world of wealth I have drawn together deserves to be destroyed by this. What damned devil made
For mine own ends; indeed, to gain the popedom, me put the most important secret I have in the package I
And fee my friends in Rome. O negligence! sent to the king? Is there no cure to this? No new plot to
Fit for a fool to fall by: what cross devil make him forget it? I know he'll be angry, but I know a way-
270 Made me put this main secret in the packet -if it works--to get out of this. What's this? It says "To the
I sent the king? Is there no way to cure this? Pope!" I swear, it's the letter I wrote to the Pope about all
No new device to beat this from his brains? this business. No, then it's over! I have reached the highest
I know 'twill stir him strongly; yet I know point of my power and will now quickly descend from that
A way, if it take right, in spite of fortune glorious point. I will fall like a bright star in the evening and
275 Will bring me off again. What's this? 'To the Pope!' will not be seen again.
The letter, as I live, with all the business
I writ to's holiness. Nay then, farewell!
I have touch'd the highest point of all my greatness;
And, from that full meridian of my glory,
280 I haste now to my setting: I shall fall
Like a bright exhalation in the evening,
And no man see me more.

Re-enter to CARDINAL WOLSEY, NORFOLK and SUFFOLK, SURREY, and NORFOLK and SUFFOLK, SURREY, and the CHAMBERLAIN
the Chamberlain re-enter and go to CARDINAL WOLSEY.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Hear the king's pleasure, cardinal: who commands you Listen to what the king says, cardinal. He commands you to
To render up the great seal presently give us the great seal at once and to shut yourself in Asher
285 Into our hands; and to confine yourself House, the Lord of Winchester's house, until you hear more
To Asher House, my Lord of Winchester's, from him.
Till you hear further from his highness.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Stay: Wait: where's your warrant, lords? You don't have the
Where's your commission, lords? words cannot carry authority to tell me to do something like this.
290 Authority so weighty.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
Who dare cross 'em, Who would dare to disobey us, since we're telling you what
Bearing the king's will from his mouth expressly? the king wants straight from his mouth?

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Till I find more than will or words to do it, Until I find more reason than words or wants, by which I
I mean your malice, know, officious lords, mean your ill will to me, busybody lords, I dare and must
295 I dare and must deny it. Now I feel refuse to obey. Now I see what rough stuff you're made of:
Of what coarse metal ye are moulded, envy: envy. You're as eager about my disgrace as if it were food
How eagerly ye follow my disgraces, for you! You are so delighted and quick to do anything that
As if it fed ye! and how sleek and wanton can ruin me! Go on and do your envious deeds, evil men.

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Ye appear in every thing may bring my ruin! You have a right to do them and no doubt you'll be
300 Follow your envious courses, men of malice; punished for them someday. That seal you ask me for so
You have Christian warrant for 'em, and, no doubt, violently was handed to me personally by the king, who is
In time will find their fit rewards. That seal, your master and mine. He told me to enjoy it as long as I
You ask with such a violence, the king, live, along with the position and honors that went with it.
Mine and your master, with his own hand gave me; To confirm this good deed, he wrote up official documents.
305 Bade me enjoy it, with the place and honours, Now, who still wants to take it away?
During my life; and, to confirm his goodness,
Tied it by letters-patents: now, who'll take it?

SURREY SURREY
The king, that gave it. The king, who gave it to you.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

It must be himself, then. He'll have to do it himself, then.

SURREY SURREY
310 Thou art a proud traitor, priest. You're an arrogant traitor, priest.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Proud lord, thou liest: Arrogant lord, you're lying. Within forty hours you'll wish
Within these forty hours Surrey durst better you'd burned your tongue rather than say that.
Have burnt that tongue than said so.

SURREY SURREY
Thy ambition, Your ambition, your horrible sin, robbed this sad land of
315 Thou scarlet sin, robb'd this bewailing land noble Buckingham, my father-in-law. The heads of all your
Of noble Buckingham, my father-in-law: cardinal friends along with you and all your best
The heads of all thy brother cardinals, possessions all bound together aren't worth a hair on his
With thee and all thy best parts bound together, head. Damn your plots! You sent me as a representative to
Weigh'd not a hair of his. Plague of your policy! Ireland. I was too far away to help him, far from the king
320 You sent me deputy for Ireland; and from everyone who might have mercy on him for what
Far from his succor, from the king, from all you accused him of. In your great goodness, out of holy
That might have mercy on the fault thou gavest him; pity, you forgave him--with an axe.
Whilst your great goodness, out of holy pity,
Absolved him with an axe.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

325 This, and all else I answer that this and everything else this babbling lord
This talking lord can lay upon my credit, says I did is false. The duke was punished by the law. How
I answer is most false. The duke by law innocent I was of having a secret grudge against him is
Found his deserts: how innocent I was obvious if you look at the noble jury that judged him and
From any private malice in his end, his terrible crime. If I loved to talk, lord, I would tell you that
330 His noble jury and foul cause can witness. you have as little honesty as honor and that in my loyalty
If I loved many words, lord, I should tell you and honest to the king, my always-royal master, I'm a better
You have as little honesty as honour, man than Surrey and everyone who loves his foolishness
That in the way of loyalty and truth can be.
Toward the king, my ever royal master,
335 Dare mate a sounder man than Surrey can be,
And all that love his follies.

SURREY SURREY
By my soul, I swear by my soul that your cardinal's robe protects you,
Your long coat, priest, protects you; thou priest. Otherwise you would feel my sword kill you now. My
shouldst feel lords, can you bear to hear this arrogance? From this
340 My sword i' the life-blood of thee else. My lords, fellow? If we can stand here meekly being insulted like this
Can ye endure to hear this arrogance? by a churchman, our nobility is gone. Let him go on and
And from this fellow? if we live thus tamely, wave his hat at us as if we were birds he was trying to catch.
To be thus jaded by a piece of scarlet,
Farewell nobility; let his grace go forward,
345 And dare us with his cap like larks.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

All goodness All goodness is poison to you.
Is poison to thy stomach.

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SURREY SURREY
Yes, that goodness Yes, the goodness of taking all the country's wealth for
Of gleaning all the land's wealth into one, yourself, cardinal, by force. The goodness of those letters
350 Into your own hands, cardinal, by extortion; you wrote to the Pope against the king. Since you're
The goodness of your intercepted packets provoking me, everyone will find out about your
You writ to the pope against the king: your goodness, "goodness." My Lord of Norfolk, if you're really noble and
Since you provoke me, shall be most notorious. love the common good and our insulted nobility and our
My Lord of Norfolk, as you are truly noble, children who will barely be gentleman, let alone noblemen,
355 As you respect the common good, the state if he stays alive, bring out the list of his sins, the
Of our despised nobility, our issues, observations about his life. I'll startle you worse than a bell 9 Wolsey's sexual escapades were
Who, if he live, will scarce be gentlemen, ringing when you're holding and kissing the brown girl 9 , well known. Despite the fact that
Produce the grand sum of his sins, the articles lord cardinal. Catholic priests make a vow of
Collected from his life. I'll startle you chastity, Wolsey had a mistress called
"Mistress Lark" with whom he had at
360 Worse than the scaring bell, when the brown wench least two children.
Lay kissing in your arms, lord cardinal.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

How much, methinks, I could despise this man, I could hate this man so much, I think, if it weren't wrong to
But that I am bound in charity against it! hate anyone!

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Those articles, my lord, are in the king's hand: The king has that list, my lord. But I'll say this much, his sins
365 But, thus much, they are foul ones. are terrible.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

So much fairer My innocence then will seem so much more beautiful and
And spotless shall mine innocence arise, guiltless when the king finds out how honest I am.
When the king knows my truth.

SURREY SURREY
This cannot save you: This can't save you. I remember some of the things on the
370 I thank my memory, I yet remember list and I'll say what they are. Now, if you can blush and say
Some of these articles; and out they shall. you're guilty, cardinal, you'll seem a little honest.
Now, if you can blush and cry 'guilty,' cardinal,
You'll show a little honesty.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Speak on, sir; Go on and speak, sir. I can face your worst accusations. If I
375 I dare your worst objections: if I blush, blush it's because I see a nobleman with no manners.
It is to see a nobleman want manners.

SURREY SURREY
I had rather want those than my head. Have at you! I'd rather be without manners than without a head. Take
First, that, without the king's assent or knowledge, this! First, without the king's agreement or knowledge, you
You wrought to be a legate; by which power made yourself an ambassador to the Pope. By doing this
380 You maim'd the jurisdiction of all bishops. you stole power from all bishops.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Then, that in all you writ to Rome, or else Then, that in all the letters you wrote to Rome or to foreign
To foreign princes, 'Ego et Rex meus' prince, "I and my king" was always written. So you
Was still inscribed; in which you brought the king represented the king as your servant.
To be your servant.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
385 Then that, without the knowledge Then, without the king's or council's knowledge, when you
Either of king or council, when you went went to the emperor as an ambassador you dared to carry
Ambassador to the emperor, you made bold the great seal into Flanders.
To carry into Flanders the great seal.

SURREY SURREY
Item, you sent a large commission Then, you sent a large amount of money to Gregory to
390 To Gregory de Cassado, to conclude, Cassado to make an alliance between the king and Ferrara
Without the king's will or the state's allowance, without the king's or country's agreement.
A league between his highness and Ferrara.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
That, out of mere ambition, you have caused Then, out of simple ambition, you had your cardinal's hat
Your holy hat to be stamp'd on the king's coin. stamped on coins.

SURREY SURREY
395 Then that you have sent innumerable substance-- Then, that you sent countless wealth--how you got it is
By what means got, I leave to your own conscience-- between you and your conscience--to Rome for their use
To furnish Rome, and to prepare the ways and to pay for honors for yourself, which was bad for the

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You have for dignities; to the mere undoing kingdom. There are many more items on the list which,
Of all the kingdom. Many more there are; since they are about you and disgusting, I will not
400 Which, since they are of you, and odious, contaminate my mouth with.
I will not taint my mouth with.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
O my lord, My lord, don't kick a man when he's down! It's not virtuous.
Press not a falling man too far! 'tis virtue: His faults will be judged by the laws. Let them punish him
His faults lie open to the laws; let them, instead of doing it yourself. My heart weeps to see him
405 Not you, correct him. My heart weeps to see him diminished like this.
So little of his great self.

SURREY SURREY
I forgive him. I forgive him.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
Lord cardinal, the king's further pleasure is, Lord cardinal, because the things you've done lately with
Because all those things you have done of late, your power as a papal deputy in this kingdom fall under the 10 The statute of "praemunire"
410 By your power legatine, within this kingdom, crime of praemunire 10 , the king also wants to sue you for forbids saying or acting as though the
Fall into the compass of a praemunire, all your goods, lands, holdings, moveable property, and pope and his representatives have
That therefore such a writ be sued against you; anything else, and to throw you out of his protection. I was more power over the kingdom than
the king. Wolsey's dealings with the
To forfeit all your goods, lands, tenements, told to tell you this. pope behind the king's back threaten
Chattels, and whatsoever, and to be the king's sole authority.
415 Out of the king's protection. This is my charge.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
And so we'll leave you to your meditations So we'll leave you to your thoughts about how to live better.
How to live better. For your stubborn answer As for your stubborn answer about giving the great seal
About the giving back the great seal to us, back to us, the king will know it and no doubt will thank
The king shall know it, and, no doubt, shall thank you. you. So goodbye, not good lord cardinal.
420 So fare you well, my little good lord cardinal.

Exeunt all but CARDINAL WOLSEY All except CARDINAL WOLSEY exit.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

So farewell to the little good you bear me. So goodbye to your feelings about me, which are not good.
Farewell! a long farewell, to all my greatness! Goodbye! Goodbye to all my power! This is what it is to be
This is the state of man: to-day he puts forth human. One day a man is full of hope, like a plant
The tender leaves of hopes; to-morrow blossoms, producing its first tender leaves. The next day he blossoms
425 And bears his blushing honours thick upon him; and is covered with honor. On the third day a frost, a
The third day comes a frost, a killing frost, murderous frost, comes and when the confident man thinks
And, when he thinks, good easy man, full surely that his greatness is certainly ripening, the frost kills his
His greatness is a-ripening, nips his root, root and he falls, like I do. Like little boys swimming on
And then he falls, as I do. I have ventured, inflatable toys, I have dared to swim for many summers in a
430 Like little wanton boys that swim on bladders, sea of glory, far beyond my depth. My blown-up pride
This many summers in a sea of glory, finally broke under me and now has left me, tired by public
But far beyond my depth: my high-blown pride service and old, to the mercy of a rough stream that will
At length broke under me and now has left me, drown me. I hate you, pointless ceremony and worldly
Weary and old with service, to the mercy glory. My heart feels newly opened. How miserable a poor
435 Of a rude stream, that must for ever hide me. man is who depends on the favors of kings! More suffering
Vain pomp and glory of this world, I hate ye: and fear than you get from wars or women lies between the
I feel my heart new open'd. O, how wretched smile we wish for, I mean a kind expression on a king's face,
Is that poor man that hangs on princes' favours! and destruction. And when a man like that falls, he falls like
There is, betwixt that smile we would aspire to, Lucifer, with no hope left.
440 That sweet aspect of princes, and their ruin,
More pangs and fears than wars or women have:
And when he falls, he falls like Lucifer,
Never to hope again.

Enter CROMWELL, and stands amazed CROMWELL enters and stands looking amazed.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Why, how now, Cromwell! Well hello, Cromwell!
445
CROMWELL CROMWELL
I have no power to speak, sir. I don't know what to say, sir.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

What, amazed What, are you amazed at my bad luck? Are you surprised a
At my misfortunes? can thy spirit wonder great man can fall? Well, if you're crying I must really have
A great man should decline? Nay, an you weep, fallen.
450 I am fall'n indeed.

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CROMWELL CROMWELL
How does your grace? How are you?

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

Why, well; Well, actually. I've never been so truly happy, my dear
Never so truly happy, my good Cromwell. Cromwell. Now I know myself and I feel inside me a peace
I know myself now; and I feel within me greater than all earthly honors, a calm and satisfied
455 A peace above all earthly dignities, conscience. The king has cured me and I thank him. Out of
A still and quiet conscience. The king has cured me, pity, he's taken a weight off these shoulders, these broken 11 Remember that, in the first
I humbly thank his grace; and from these shoulders, pillars, that would sink a navy 11 : too much honor. Oh, it's conversation between the king and
These ruin'd pillars, out of pity, taken a burden, Cromwell, it's a burden too heavy for a man who Wolsey, the cardinal compared
A load would sink a navy, too much honour: hopes to go to heaven. himself to an unsinkable ship
followed by hungry, powerless fish.
460 O, 'tis a burthen, Cromwell, 'tis a burthen Now, his ship is sinking.
Too heavy for a man that hopes for heaven!

CROMWELL CROMWELL
I am glad your grace has made that right use of it. I am glad you've made good use of it, your grace.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

I hope I have: I am able now, methinks, I hope I have. I think I am able now, because of how strong
Out of a fortitude of soul I feel, my soul feels, to bear more and greater suffering by far than
465 To endure more miseries and greater far my cowardly enemies dare cause me. What news is there?
Than my weak-hearted enemies dare offer.
What news abroad?

CROMWELL CROMWELL
The heaviest and the worst The saddest and worst is the king's anger at you.
Is your displeasure with the king.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

470 God bless him! God bless him!

CROMWELL CROMWELL
The next is, that Sir Thomas More is chosen The next is that Sir Thomas More 12 has been chosen as 12 This scene compresses and alters
Lord chancellor in your place. lord chancellor to replace you. the historical chronology of events,
but the point is that "Sir Thomas
More" became Henry VIII's Lord
Chancellor. More was executed for his
refusal to take the Oath of Supremacy,
which names the English monarch as
the Supreme Governor of the Church
of England. More remained faithful to
his Catholic faith, and did not support
the king's divorce and remarriage.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

That's somewhat sudden: That's very sudden, but he's a learned man. I hope he stays
But he's a learned man. May he continue in the king's favor for a long time and does his job well for
475 Long in his highness' favour, and do justice the sake of truth and his conscience. And I hope that when
For truth's sake and his conscience; that his bones, he has died and gone to heaven, orphans will cry over his
When he has run his course and sleeps in blessings, body because he has been so kind to them! What else?
May have a tomb of orphans' tears wept on em! What
more?

CROMWELL CROMWELL
480 That Cranmer is return'd with welcome, Cranmer has returned and his welcome is that he has been
Install'd lord archbishop of Canterbury. made archbishop of Canterbury.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

That's news indeed. Well, that's news.

CROMWELL CROMWELL
Last, that the Lady Anne, Finally, the Lady Anne, whom the king married secretly long
Whom the king hath in secrecy long married, ago, was today openly presented as his queen when they
485 This day was view'd in open as his queen, went to church together. Now the only thing anyone talks
Going to chapel; and the voice is now about is her coronation.
Only about her coronation.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

There was the weight that pull'd me down. O Cromwell, That was what destroyed me. Oh, Cromwell, the king has
The king has gone beyond me: all my glories moved on from me. I lost all my glories because of that one
490 In that one woman I have lost for ever: woman. No sun will rise on a day that brings me honor or
No sun shall ever usher forth mine honours, shine on the noble crowds that depended on me. Go, get
Or gild again the noble troops that waited away from me, Cromwell. I'm a poor, ruined man, unworthy
Upon my smiles. Go, get thee from me, Cromwell; to be your lord and master. Go to the king, may he be

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I am a poor fall'n man, unworthy now powerful forever! I have told him about your qualities and
495 To be thy lord and master: seek the king; how honest you are. He will promote you. Some small
That sun, I pray, may never set! I have told him memory of me will keep him from letting you suffer for
What and how true thou art: he will advance thee; doing your duty--I know his noble character. Good
Some little memory of me will stir him-- Cromwell, be good to him. Go on, take care of yourself and
I know his noble nature--not to let consider your own safety.
500 Thy hopeful service perish too: good Cromwell,
Neglect him not; make use now, and provide
For thine own future safety.

CROMWELL CROMWELL
O my lord, My lord, do I have to leave you? Do I have to abandon such a
Must I, then, leave you? must I needs forego good, noble, and honest master? Those of you who aren't
505 So good, so noble and so true a master? hard-hearted, bear witness to how sadly Cromwell leaves
Bear witness, all that have not hearts of iron, his master. I'll serve the king but I'll pray for you for ever
With what a sorrow Cromwell leaves his lord. and ever.
The king shall have my service: but my prayers
For ever and for ever shall be yours.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

510 Cromwell, I did not think to shed a tear Cromwell, I didn't think I would cry despite all my suffering.
In all my miseries; but thou hast forced me, But you've forced me to act like a woman and cry because
Out of thy honest truth, to play the woman. of your honest faithfulness. Let's dry our eyes. And listen to
Let's dry our eyes: and thus far hear me, Cromwell; me, Cromwell. When I have been forgotten, as I will be, and
And, when I am forgotten, as I shall be, lie in my cold marble tomb, where no one will mention me
515 And sleep in dull cold marble, where no mention again, say I taught you. Say, Wolsey, who was once powerful
Of me more must be heard of, say, I taught thee, and explored all the depths and shallow places in the sea of
Say, Wolsey, that once trod the ways of glory, honor, found you a way to rise when he was shipwrecked. A
And sounded all the depths and shoals of honour, secure and safe way, even though your master couldn't take
Found thee a way, out of his wreck, to rise in; it too. Just consider my fall and what ruined me. Cromwell,
520 A sure and safe one, though thy master miss'd it. I tell you, don't be ambitious. That's the sin that made the
Mark but my fall, and that that ruin'd me. angels fall. So, how can a man, made in the image of God,
Cromwell, I charge thee, fling away ambition: hope to get anything by it? Love yourself less than everyone
By that sin fell the angels; how can man, then, else, love those who hate you. Corruption doesn't get you
The image of his Maker, hope to win by it? any more than honesty. Always be ready to impose peace,
525 Love thyself last: cherish those hearts that hate thee; to silence critical voices. Be just and don't be afraid. Let the
Corruption wins not more than honesty. only goal you work toward be the good of your country,
Still in thy right hand carry gentle peace, your God, and truth. Then if you fall, Cromwell, you'll fall as
To silence envious tongues. Be just, and fear not: a blessed saint! Serve the king and--please, take me inside.
Let all the ends thou aim'st at be thy country's, There make a list of everything I have, down to the last
530 Thy God's, and truth's; then if thou fall'st, penny. It belongs to the king. My robe and my trust in
O Cromwell, heaven are all I can call mine now. Oh, Cromwell, Cromwell!
Thou fall'st a blessed martyr! Serve the king; If I had only served my God with half the eagerness I served
And,--prithee, lead me in: my king, he would not have left me defenseless against my
There take an inventory of all I have, enemies in my old age.
535 To the last penny; 'tis the king's: my robe,
And my integrity to heaven, is all
I dare now call mine own. O Cromwell, Cromwell!
Had I but served my God with half the zeal
I served my king, he would not in mine age
540 Have left me naked to mine enemies.

CROMWELL CROMWELL
Good sir, have patience. Be calm, sir.

CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL WOLSEY

So I have. Farewell I am. Goodbye, the hopes I had in court. My hopes now live
The hopes of court! my hopes in heaven do dwell. in heaven.

Exeunt They exit.

Act 4, Scene 1
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter two Gentlemen, meeting one another Two GENTLEMEN enter, meeting.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

You're well met once again. Hello, again.

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SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

So are you. Hello.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

You come to take your stand here, and behold You've come to stand here and watch Lady Anne pass
The Lady Anne pass from her coronation? through on her way back from her coronation?

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

5 'Tis all my business. At our last encounter, That's exactly it. When we last met, the Duke of
The Duke of Buckingham came from his trial. Buckingham was coming from his trial.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

'Tis very true: but that time offer'd sorrow; That's true. That was a sad occasion, and this is one filled
This, general joy. with joy.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

'Tis well: the citizens, It's a good occasion. The citizens have shown their royal
10 I am sure, have shown at full their royal minds-- feelings about it--to be fair, they're always quick to show
As, let 'em have their rights, they are ever forward-- their emotions--by celebrating this day with plays, parades,
In celebration of this day with shows, and other festivities.
Pageants and sights of honour.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Never greater, There was never a greater celebration, nor, I'm sure, a
15 Nor, I'll assure you, better taken, sir. better reason for one.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

May I be bold to ask at what that contains, Could I be so bold as to ask what that paper you're holding
That paper in your hand? says?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Yes; 'tis the list Yes. It's the list of those who are getting titles today, as is
Of those that claim their offices this day usual on a coronation. The Duke of Suffolk is the first. He
20 By custom of the coronation. wants to be high-steward. Then is the Duke of Norfolk, who
The Duke of Suffolk is the first, and claims wants to be earl marshal. You can read the rest.
To be high-steward; next, the Duke of Norfolk,
He to be earl marshal: you may read the rest.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

I thank you, sir: had I not known those customs, Thank you, sir. If I hadn't known about these customs I
25 I should have been beholding to your paper. would have been very grateful to see the paper. But tell me,
But, I beseech you, what's become of Katharine, what's become of Katharine, the princess dowager? How is
The princess dowager? how goes her business? she?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

That I can tell you too. The Archbishop I can tell you that too. The Archbishop of Canterbury and
Of Canterbury, accompanied with other other learned, wise fathers of that religion held a court at
30 Learned and reverend fathers of his order, Dunstable, six miles away from Ampthill where the princess
Held a late court at Dunstable, six miles off was staying. She was often called up by them but didn't
From Ampthill where the princess lay; to which appear. In short, because she didn't appear and because of
She was often cited by them, but appear'd not: the king's recent doubts, these learned men agreed that
And, to be short, for not appearance and she should be divorced and the marriage was ended. Since
35 The king's late scruple, by the main assent then she moved to Kimbolton, where she still is, and is sick.
Of all these learned men she was divorced,
And the late marriage made of none effect
Since which she was removed to Kimbolton,
Where she remains now sick.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

40 Alas, good lady! Poor, good lady!

Trumpets Trumpets sound.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

The trumpets sound: stand close, the queen is coming. The trumpets are sounding. Get closer, the queen is
coming.

Hautboys Oboes sound.

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THE ORDER OF THE CORONATION THE ORDER OF APPEARANCE IN THE CORONATION:

1. A lively flourish of Trumpets. 1. Trumpets are played.

2. Then, two Judges. 2. Two judges enter.
3. Lord Chancellor, with the purse and mace before him. 3. The Lord Chancellor enters, carrying the ceremonial
4. Choristers, singing. purse and staff in front of him.
5. Mayor of London, bearing the mace. Then Garter, in his coat of 4. A choir enters, singing.
arms, and on his head a gilt copper crown. 5. The Mayor of London enters, carrying the ceremonial
6. Marquess Dorset, bearing a sceptre of gold, on his head a demi- staff. Then Garter, wearing his coat of arms with a copper,
coronal of gold. With gold-covered crown on his head.
7. SUFFOLK, in his robe of estate, his coronet on his head, bearing a 6. Marquess Dorset enters carrying a golden scepter with a
long white wand, as high-steward. With him, NORFOLK, with the rod golden crown on his head. SURREY enters with him carrying
of marshalship, a coronet on his head. Collars of SS. a silver stick with a dove on it and wearing an earl's crown 1 The "collar" mentioned is an
8. A canopy borne by four of the Cinque-ports; under it, QUEEN ANNE and a collar with S's 1 on it. ornamental gold chain with links in
in her robe; in her hair richly adorned with pearl, crowned. On each 7. SUFFOLK enters dressed as high-steward, wearing his the form of the letter "S." It may be
side her, the Bishops of London and Winchester. worn by those with the rank of
official robe and a crown on his head and carrying a long
"esquire" (knight) upward.
9. The old Duchess of Norfolk, in a coronal of gold, wrought with white staff. NORFOLK enters with him carrying the
flowers, bearing QUEEN ANNE's train. marshal's staff with a crown on his head. They wear collars
10. Certain Ladies or Countesses, with plain circlets of gold without with S's on them.
flowers. 8. A canopy is carried by four officers of the Cinque-ports.
QUEEN ANNE is under it in her ceremonial robe. Her hair is
decorated with pearls and she wears a crown. The Bishops
of London and Winchester enter on either side of her.
9. The old Duchess of Norfolk wearing a golden crown
shaped into flowers carries the train of QUEEN ANNE's
dress.
10. Certain ladies or countesses enter wearing plain golden
circlets without flowers.

Music. They pass over the stage in order and state. Music plays. They pass over the stage in the order
described.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

A royal train, believe me. These I know: This is a royal-looking procession, believe me. I know these
45 Who's that that bears the sceptre? people, but who's that carrying the scepter?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Marquess Dorset: Marquess Dorset. And that's the Earl of Surrey with the staff.
And that the Earl of Surrey, with the rod.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

A bold brave gentleman. That should be He's a brave, daring man. So that'll be the Duke of Suffolk
The Duke of Suffolk? next?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

50 'Tis the same: high-steward. Exactly. He's high-steward.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

And that my Lord of Norfolk? And that's the Lord of Norfolk?

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Yes. Yes.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

[Looking on QUEEN ANNE] Heaven bless thee! [Looking at QUEEN ANNE] God bless you! You have the
Thou hast the sweetest face I ever look'd on. sweetest face I've ever seen. Sir, I swear on my soul that
55 Sir, as I have a soul, she is an angel; she's an angel. When our king hugs that lady he's holding
Our king has all the Indies in his arms, something more precious than all of India. I can't blame
And more and richer, when he strains that lady: him for his doubts about his former marriage.
I cannot blame his conscience.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

They that bear Those who carry the canopy over her are four barons,
60 The cloth of honour over her, are four barons officers of the Cinque-ports.
Of the Cinque-ports.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

Those men are happy; and so are all are near her. Those men are lucky, and so is everyone near her. I assume
I take it, she that carries up the train the woman carrying her train is the old, noble Duchess of
Is that old noble lady, Duchess of Norfolk. Norfolk.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

65 It is; and all the rest are countesses. She is, and the others are countesses.

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SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

Their coronets say so. These are stars indeed; I can tell from their crowns. They look like stars--sometimes
And sometimes falling ones. falling stars.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

No more of that. Shh, that's enough.

Exit procession, and then a great flourish of trumpets. Enter a third The parade exits and trumpets sound loudly. A THIRD
Gentleman. GENTLEMAN enters.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

70 God save you, sir! where have you been broiling? Hello, sir! What crowd have you been in?

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

Among the crowd i' the Abbey; where a finger The crowd in the Abbey. You couldn't have wedged in even
Could not be wedged in more: I am stifled one more finger. I feel suffocated by their disgusting
With the mere rankness of their joy. happiness.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

You saw You saw the coronation?
75 The ceremony?

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

That I did. I did.

FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

How was it? How was it?

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

Well worth the seeing. Well worth seeing.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

Good sir, speak it to us. Tell us about it, good sir.

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

80 As well as I am able. The rich stream I will tell you as well as I can. The expensively dressed
Of lords and ladies, having brought the queen procession of lords and ladies brought the queen to a place
To a prepared place in the choir, fell off prepared in the choir of the cathedral and separated from
A distance from her; while her grace sat down her. She sat down to rest a while, a half an hour or so, in a
To rest awhile, some half an hour or so, beautiful throne, openly showing her beauty to the people.
85 In a rich chair of state, opposing freely Believe me, sir, she's the most beautiful woman a man ever
The beauty of her person to the people. slept with. When the people saw her clearly, they made a
Believe me, sir, she is the goodliest woman noise as loud as the sails on a ship in a bad storm, and
That ever lay by man: which when the people made up of as many different tunes. They threw up their
Had the full view of, such a noise arose hats, cloaks, and even shirts I think. If their faces had been
90 As the shrouds make at sea in a stiff tempest, loose, they would have thrown and lost them today. I never
As loud, and to as many tunes: hats, cloaks-- saw such happiness before. Hugely pregnant women who
Doublets, I think,--flew up; and had their faces had less than a week before labor shook the crowd and
Been loose, this day they had been lost. Such joy knocked them over like those battering rams that used to
I never saw before. Great-bellied women, be used in war. No man alive could have identified his wife
95 That had not half a week to go, like rams there because all the people were so woven together.
In the old time of war, would shake the press,
And make 'em reel before 'em. No man living
Could say 'This is my wife' there; all were woven
So strangely in one piece.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

100 But, what follow'd? But what happened next?

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

At length her grace rose, and with modest paces Finally the queen rose and walked modestly to the altar.
Came to the altar; where she kneel'd, and saint-like She kneeled there and, like a saint, turned her eyes to
Cast her fair eyes to heaven and pray'd devoutly. heaven and prayed piously. Then she got up again and
Then rose again and bow'd her to the people: bowed to the people. Then the Archbishop of Canterbury
105 When by the Archbishop of Canterbury put on her all the things that make you a queen, like holy
She had all the royal makings of a queen; oil, Edward the Confessor's crown, the staff and bird that
As holy oil, Edward Confessor's crown, symbolize peace, and all the other symbols. When this was 2 The "Te Deum" is a hymn of
The rod, and bird of peace, and all such emblems done, the choir, which was made up of the best singers in thanksgiving to God for a special
Laid nobly on her: which perform'd, the choir, the kingdom, sang "Te Deum 2 ." She left and walked back blessing. Its lyrics begin, "We praise
110 With all the choicest music of the kingdom, to York-place where the feast is with the same dignified thee, O Lord."
Together sung 'Te Deum.' So she parted, walk.
And with the same full state paced back again
To York-place, where the feast is held.

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FIRST GENTLEMAN FIRST GENTLEMAN

Sir, Sir, you shouldn't call it York-place anymore. That's its old
115 You must no more call it York-place, that's past; name. Since the cardinal fell from power, it hasn't been
For, since the cardinal fell, that title's lost: called that. Now it belongs to the king and is called
'Tis now the king's, and call'd Whitehall. Whitehall.

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

I know it; I know. But the name was changed so recently that I still
But 'tis so lately alter'd, that the old name think of it by its old name.
120 Is fresh about me.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

What two reverend bishops Who were the two respectable bishops walking on either
Were those that went on each side of the queen? side of the queen?

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

Stokesly and Gardiner; the one of Winchester, Stokesly and Gardiner. The first is bishop of Winchester,
Newly preferr'd from the king's secretary, recently promoted from his job as the king's secretary. The
125 The other, London. other is bishop of London.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

He of Winchester The bishop of Winchester is believed to dislike the
Is held no great good lover of the archbishop's, archbishop, virtuous Cranmer.
The virtuous Cranmer.

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

All the land knows that: Everyone knows that. But there hasn't been a big fight yet.
130 However, yet there is no great breach; when it comes, When it comes, Cranmer will find a friend who won't
Cranmer will find a friend will not shrink from him. abandon him.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

Who may that be, I pray you? Really? Who's that?

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

Thomas Cromwell; Thomas Cromwell, a man the king thinks very highly of and
A man in much esteem with the king, and truly a very good friend. The king has put him in charge of the
135 A worthy friend. The king has made him master treasury and he's already one of his private advisers.
O' the jewel house,
And one, already, of the privy council.

SECOND GENTLEMAN SECOND GENTLEMAN

He will deserve more. He will deserve further promotions.

THIRD GENTLEMAN THIRD GENTLEMAN

Yes, without all doubt. Yes, definitely. Come on, gentleman, you'll go with me to
140 Come, gentlemen, ye shall go my way, which the court and be my guests there. I have some authority
Is to the court, and there ye shall be my guests: there. As we walk there I'll tell you more.
Something I can command. As I walk thither,
I'll tell ye more.

BOTH BOTH
You may command us, sir. We'll do as you say, sir.
145
Exeunt They exit.

Act 4, Scene 2
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter KATHARINE, Dowager, sick; led between GRIFFITH, her KATHARINE the Dowager Princess enters, sick. She's
gentleman usher, and PATIENCE, her woman supported by GRIFFITH, her manservant, and PATIENCE,
her maid.

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
How does your grace? How are you, your grace?

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KATHARINE KATHARINE
O Griffith, sick to death! Oh, Griffith, I'm terminally ill! My legs are like branches
My legs, like loaden branches, bow to the earth, weighed down by something and bow to the earth, trying to
Willing to leave their burthen. Reach a chair: put down the weight they carry. Get me a chair. Ahh, now, I
5 So; now, methinks, I feel a little ease. think, I feel a little better. Didn't you tell me, Griffith, as you
Didst thou not tell me, Griffith, as thou led'st me, led me, that that honorable man, Cardinal Wolsey, was
That the great child of honour, Cardinal Wolsey, dead?
Was dead?

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
Yes, madam; but I think your grace, Yes, ma'am. But I think you were in too much pain to listen.
10 Out of the pain you suffer'd, gave no ear to't.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
Prithee, good Griffith, tell me how he died: Please, good Griffith, tell me how he died. If he died well,
If well, he stepp'd before me, happily I'm lucky in that he's given me an example to follow.
For my example.

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
Well, the voice goes, madam: They say he did die well, ma'am. After the brave Earl of
15 For after the stout Earl Northumberland Northumberland arrested him at York and brought him to
Arrested him at York, and brought him forward, court to answer for the terrible crimes he was accused of,
As a man sorely tainted, to his answer, he suddenly got sick and became so unwell he couldn't
He fell sick suddenly, and grew so ill even sit up on his donkey.
He could not sit his mule.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
20 Alas, poor man! Poor man!

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
At last, with easy roads, he came to Leicester, At last, he took easy roads to Leicester and stayed in the
Lodged in the abbey; where the reverend abbot, abbey. The respected abbot and all the monks received him
With all his covent, honourably received him; honorably there. He said to the abbot, "Oh, father abbot, an
To whom he gave these words, 'O, father abbot, old man injured by the uproars of politics has come to die
25 An old man, broken with the storms of state, among you. Be kind enough to give him a grave!" So he
Is come to lay his weary bones among ye; went to bed, where his sickness eagerly attacked him. Three
Give him a little earth for charity!' nights later, around eight, which was the time he had
So went to bed; where eagerly his sickness foretold he would die, full of repentance, continual
Pursued him still: and, three nights after this, meditation, tears, and sadness, he gave back his honors to
30 About the hour of eight, which he himself the world and his soul to heaven and slept peacefully.
Foretold should be his last, full of repentance,
Continual meditations, tears, and sorrows,
He gave his honours to the world again,
His blessed part to heaven, and slept in peace.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
35 So may he rest; his faults lie gently on him! May he rest in peace and not be punished harshly for his
Yet thus far, Griffith, give me leave to speak him, faults! Let me say just this about him, Griffith, but I'll speak
And yet with charity. He was a man it kindly. He was a man with boundless appetites, always
Of an unbounded stomach, ever ranking thinking he was equal to kings. He ruled the kingdom with
Himself with princes; one that, by suggestion, his words. He was fine with buying and selling public
40 Tied all the kingdom: simony was fair-play; offices. His own opinion was the law for him. He would lie
His own opinion was his law: i' the presence to the king and was always ambiguous in what he said. He
He would say untruths; and be ever double never pitied anyone except when he meant to destroy
Both in his words and meaning: he was never, them. He promised great things and he was great, but he
But where he meant to ruin, pitiful: did nothing and he is nothing now. He treated his own body
45 His promises were, as he then was, mighty; badly and was a bad example to churchmen.
But his performance, as he is now, nothing:
Of his own body he was ill, and gave
The clergy in example.

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
Noble madam, Noble lady, men's bad qualities are remembered as if they
50 Men's evil manners live in brass; their virtues were engraved in metal, but their virtues are forgotten as
We write in water. May it please your highness quickly as if they were written on water. May I say good
To hear me speak his good now? things about him now?

KATHARINE KATHARINE
Yes, good Griffith; Yes, good Griffith, it would be cruel of me to refuse.
I were malicious else.

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
55 This cardinal, This cardinal, although he came from a humble family, was
Though from an humble stock, undoubtedly undoubtedly meant to win great honor from the day he was

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Was fashion'd to much honour from his cradle. born. He was a scholar, and an excellent one. He was very
He was a scholar, and a ripe and good one; wise, well-spoken, and persuasive. He was proud and bitter
Exceeding wise, fair-spoken, and persuading: towards those who hated him, but to those who wanted to
60 Lofty and sour to them that loved him not; be his friends he was as sweet as summer. And although he
But to those men that sought him sweet as summer. was never content with what he had, which was a sin, he
And though he were unsatisfied in getting, was as generous in giving gifts as a king. Consider those two
Which was a sin, yet in bestowing, madam, colleges he started in Ipswich and Oxford! One of them fell
He was most princely: ever witness for him along with him, unwilling to outlive its benefactor. The
65 Those twins of learning that he raised in you, other one, although not yet finished, is still so famous, so
Ipswich and Oxford! one of which fell with him, learned, and still getting better, that he will always be
Unwilling to outlive the good that did it; praised in Christian countries. His loss of power was a good
The other, though unfinish'd, yet so famous, thing for him, because it was not until then that he
So excellent in art, and still so rising, understood himself and found the joy in being
70 That Christendom shall ever speak his virtue. unimportant. And it gave him greater honor in his old age
His overthrow heap'd happiness upon him; than any man could give him that he died thinking of God.
For then, and not till then, he felt himself,
And found the blessedness of being little:
And, to add greater honours to his age
75 Than man could give him, he died fearing God.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
After my death I wish no other herald, After my death I don't want anyone to talk about my actions
No other speaker of my living actions, when I was alive to praise me except an honest historian
To keep mine honour from corruption, like Griffith. With your religious truth and modesty, you
But such an honest chronicler as Griffith. have made me honor the man I hated most when he was
80 Whom I most hated living, thou hast made me, alive now that he is dead. May he rest in peace! Patience,
With thy religious truth and modesty, stay near me and lower my chair. I won't bother you long.
Now in his ashes honour: peace be with him! Good Griffith, have the musicians play me that sad song I
Patience, be near me still; and set me lower: called my funeral music, while I sit thinking about heaven,
I have not long to trouble thee. Good Griffith, where I am going.
85 Cause the musicians play me that sad note
I named my knell, whilst I sit meditating
On that celestial harmony I go to.

Sad and solemn music Sad music plays.

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
She is asleep: good wench, let's sit down quiet, She's asleep. Dear girl, let's sit down quietly, or we'll wake
For fear we wake her: softly, gentle Patience. her. Quietly, dear Patience.
90
The vision. Enter, solemnly tripping one after another, six personages, The vision 1 : six characters enter solemnly in a line,
clad in white robes, wearing on their heads garlands of bays, and wearing white robes, bay-leaf crowns on their heads, and 1 The colors and imagery in
golden vizards on their faces; branches of bays or palm in their hands. golden masks over their faces. They hold bay or palm Katharine's dream have been
They first congee unto her, then dance; and, at certain changes, the branches in their hands. They gather around the queen and interpreted in various ways, with most
scholars pointing to the Bible as a
first two hold a spare garland over her head; at which the other four then dance. At certain points in the dance, the first two hold source text. In chapter seven of the
make reverent curtsies; then the two that held the garland deliver the another crown over her head, to which the other four Book of Revelation, for example,
same to the other next two, who observe the same order in their solemnly bow. Then the two who held the crown hand it to those who serve God wear white
changes, and holding the garland over her head: which done, they the next two, who do the same thing and hold it over her robes and carry palms in their hands.
Katharine finds a sense of peace from
deliver the same garland to the last two, who likewise observe the head. When this is done, they give the crown to the last two, this dream, imagining a heavenly
same order: at which, as it were by inspiration, she makes in her sleep who also do the same thing. Then, as if she felt divine reward that is greater than any gifts or
signs of rejoicing, and holdeth up her hands to heaven: and so in their inspiration, Katharine seems happy in her sleep and raises honors given to an earthly queen.
dancing vanish, carrying the garland with them. The music continues. her hands to heaven. Then they vanish while dancing,
carrying the crown with them. The music continues.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
Spirits of peace, where are ye? are ye all gone, Peaceful spirits, where are you? Have you all gone and left
And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye? me miserable behind you?

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
Madam, we are here. Ma'am, we're here.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
It is not you I call for: I wasn't calling for you. Didn't you see anyone come in here
95 Saw ye none enter since I slept? while I was asleep?

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
None, madam. No one, ma'am.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
No? Saw you not, even now, a blessed troop No? Didn't you see a holy band of angels--whose bright
Invite me to a banquet; whose bright faces faces cast a thousand beams on me as if they were the sun--
Cast thousand beams upon me, like the sun? invite me to a feast just now? They promised me eternal
100 They promised me eternal happiness; happiness and brought me crowns, Griffith, that I think I'm
And brought me garlands, Griffith, which I feel not yet worthy enough to wear. I will, though.

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I am not worthy yet to wear: I shall, assuredly.

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
I am most joyful, madam, such good dreams I am very happy, ma'am, that you've had such good
Possess your fancy. dreams.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
105 Bid the music leave, Have the music stop. It sounds harsh and slow to me.
They are harsh and heavy to me.

Music ceases The music stops.

PATIENCE PATIENCE
Do you note Do you see how different she suddenly looks? How drawn
How much her grace is alter'd on the sudden? her face seems? How pale she looks, and cold as earth?
110 How long her face is drawn? how pale she looks, Look at her eyes!
And of an earthy cold? Mark her eyes!

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
She is going, wench: pray, pray. She's dying, girl. Pray, pray.

PATIENCE PATIENCE
Heaven comfort her! God help her!

Enter a Messenger A MESSENGER enters.

MESSENGER MESSENGER
115 An't like your grace,-- Your grace--

KATHARINE KATHARINE
You are a saucy fellow: You're a rude fellow. Don't I deserve more politeness 2 ? 2 Katharine rebukes the messenger
Deserve we no more reverence? here because he greeted her too
informally and failed to kneel.

GRIFFITH GRIFFITH
You are to blame, You should know she won't let you treat her so rudely, since
Knowing she will not lose her wonted greatness, she's used to being powerful. Go on, kneel.
120 To use so rude behavior; go to, kneel.

MESSENGER MESSENGER
I humbly do entreat your highness' pardon; I beg your pardon, your highness. I was in a hurry and that
My haste made me unmannerly. There is staying made me rude. A gentleman sent from the king is waiting to
A gentleman, sent from the king, to see you. see you.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
Admit him entrance, Griffith: but this fellow Let him in, Griffith, but let me never see this fellow again.
125 Let me ne'er see again.

Exeunt GRIFFITH and Messenger. Re-enter GRIFFITH, with CAPUCIUS GRIFFITH and the MESSENGER exit. GRIFFITH re-enters with
CAPUCIUS.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
If my sight fail not, If I'm not going blind, you're the ambassador to the
You should be lord ambassador from the emperor, emperor, my royal nephew, and your name is Capucius.
My royal nephew, and your name Capucius.
130
CAPUCIUS CAPUCIUS
Madam, the same; your servant. That's right, ma'am. At your service.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
O, my lord, Oh, my lord, things have gone strangely since we first met,
The times and titles now are alter'd strangely and I have a different title. But please tell me what you
With me since first you knew me. But, I pray you, want from me.
135 What is your pleasure with me?

CAPUCIUS CAPUCIUS
Noble lady, Noble lady, first, I wanted to see you on my own behalf.
First mine own service to your grace; the next, Second, the king asked me to visit you. He's very sad about
The king's request that I would visit you; your illness and sends you his best wishes through me and
Who grieves much for your weakness, and by me asks you to get better.
140 Sends you his princely commendations,
And heartily entreats you take good comfort.

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KATHARINE KATHARINE
O my good lord, that comfort comes too late; Oh, my good lord, it's too late to get better. That's like being
'Tis like a pardon after execution: pardoned after your execution. The sweet medicine of
That gentle physic, given in time, had cured me; hearing from the king would have cured me if I'd gotten it in
145 But now I am past an comforts here, but prayers. time. But now I am past all cures on earth except prayers.
How does his highness? How is the king?

CAPUCIUS CAPUCIUS
Madam, in good health. He's in good health, ma'am.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
So may he ever do! and ever flourish, I hope he always is! And that he's always well when I am
When I shal l dwell with worms, and my poor name dead and living with the worms and no one speaks my
150 Banish'd the kingdom! Patience, is that letter, name anymore in this country! Patience, did you send that
I caused you write, yet sent away? letter I had you write yet?

PATIENCE PATIENCE
No, madam. No, ma'am.

Giving it to KATHARINE She gives it to KATHARINE.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
Sir, I most humbly pray you to deliver Sir, I ask you humbly to give this to the king.
155 This to my lord the king.

CAPUCIUS CAPUCIUS
Most willing, madam. Willingly, ma'am.

KATHARINE KATHARINE
In which I have commended to his goodness In it I asked him to treat his young daughter 3 well, who 3 The daughter of Katharine and
The model of our chaste loves, his young daughter; was created by our virtuous love. May heaven rain blessings Henry was named Mary, and she was
The dews of heaven fall thick in blessings on her! on her! I ask him to raise her well--she is young and of a Queen of England from 1553 until her
160 Beseeching him to give her virtuous breeding-- noble modest character, so I hope she will turn out well-- death in 1558.
She is young, and of a noble modest nature, and to love her a little for her mother's sake, who loved him
I hope she will deserve well,--and a little so much. My next small request is that he'll take a little pity
To love her for her mother's sake, that loved him, on my poor maids who have stuck by me for so long. There
Heaven knows how dearly. My next poor petition is not a single one, I swear, and I can't lie now that I'm
165 Is, that his noble grace would have some pity dying, who doesn't deserve an excellent husband, a noble,
Upon my wretched women, that so long for her virtue and true inner beauty and for honesty and
Have follow'd both my fortunes faithfully: decency. Certainly, the men who get them will be lucky. The
Of which there is not one, I dare avow, last request is for my men. They are the poorest, but they
And now I should not lie, but will deserve never abandoned me despite their poverty. I ask that their
170 For virtue and true beauty of the soul, wages be paid, and a little more be given to them to
For honesty and decent carriage, remember me by. If God had wished to give me a longer life
A right good husband, let him be a noble and more money, I would not have parted with them like
And, sure, those men are happy that shall have 'em. this. That's all that's in the letter. And, my good lord, if you
The last is, for my men; they are the poorest, love the best people in this world and wish Christian souls
175 But poverty could never draw 'em from me; to rest in peace, be a friend to these poor people and
That they may have their wages duly paid 'em, encourage the king to do this last duty for me.
And something over to remember me by:
If heaven had pleased to have given me longer life
And able means, we had not parted thus.
180 These are the whole contents: and, good my lord,
By that you love the dearest in this world,
As you wish Christian peace to souls departed,
Stand these poor people's friend, and urge the king
To do me this last right.

CAPUCIUS CAPUCIUS
185 By heaven, I will, I will, by God, or let me not be called a man anymore!
Or let me lose the fashion of a man!

KATHARINE KATHARINE
I thank you, honest lord. Remember me Thank you, honest lord. Remind the king of me humbly. Tell
In all humility unto his highness: him the trouble he's had for so long is passing away. Tell
Say his long trouble now is passing him I blessed him when I died, and I will do that. Death is
190 Out of this world; tell him, in death I bless'd him, clouding my eyes and making me blind. Goodbye, my lord.
For so I will. Mine eyes grow dim. Farewell, Griffith, goodbye. No, Patience, don't leave me yet. I have to
My lord. Griffith, farewell. Nay, Patience, go to bed. Call the other maids. When I am dead, dear girl,
You must not leave me yet: I must to bed; have me be treated honorably. Sprinkle flowers that
Call in more women. When I am dead, good wench, symbolize virtue over me so the whole world knows I was a
195 Let me be used with honour: strew me over good wife up to the day I died. Embalm me, then put me in
With maiden flowers, that all the world may know my coffin. Although I'm not a queen anymore, bury me like
I was a chaste wife to my grave: embalm me,

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Then lay me forth: although unqueen'd, yet like a queen and the daughter to a king. I can't say anything
A queen, and daughter to a king, inter me. else.
200 I can no more.

Exeunt, leading KATHARINE They exit, supporting KATHARINE.

Act 5, Scene 1
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter GARDINER, Bishop of Winchester, a Page with a torch before GARDINER, Bishop of Winchester, enters with a page (a boy
him, met by LOVELL servant) in front of him holding a torch. He's met
by LOVELL.

GARDINER GARDINER
It's one o'clock, boy, is't not? It's one o'clock, isn't it, boy?

BOY BOY
It hath struck. Yes, the clock struck one.

GARDINER GARDINER
These should be hours for necessities, This is not a time for fun but for necessities. It's a time when
Not for delights; times to repair our nature we should be sleeping to repair our bodies, not wasting
5 With comforting repose, and not for us time. Good evening, Sir Thomas! Where are you going so
To waste these times. Good hour of night, Sir Thomas! late?
Whither so late?

LOVELL LOVELL
Came you from the king, my lord? Did you come from the king, my lord?

GARDINER GARDINER
I did, Sir Thomas: and left him at primero I did, Sir Thomas. I left him playing cards with the Duke of
10 With the Duke of Suffolk. Suffolk.

LOVELL LOVELL
I must to him too, I must go to him, too, before he goes to bed. Goodbye.
Before he go to bed. I'll take my leave.

GARDINER GARDINER
Not yet, Sir Thomas Lovell. What's the matter? Wait, Sir Thomas Lovell. What's the matter? You seem to be
It seems you are in haste: an if there be in a hurry. If there's no harm in it, give me an idea of what
15 No great offence belongs to't, give your friend you're doing so late. Business that arises at midnight like
Some touch of your late business: affairs, that walk, ghosts is more urgent than the business done by day.
As they say spirits do, at midnight, have
In them a wilder nature than the business
That seeks dispatch by day.

LOVELL LOVELL
20 My lord, I love you; My lord, I love you and I will dare to tell you an important
And durst commend a secret to your ear secret. The queen's in labor and they say she's in great
Much weightier than this work. The queen's in labour, danger. It's feared that she'll die in childbirth.
They say, in great extremity; and fear'd
She'll with the labour end.

GARDINER GARDINER
25 The fruit she goes with I pray that the child 1 she's pregnant with survives. As for 1 In the original text, the child
I pray for heartily, that it may find her, Sir Thomas, I hope she dies now. (Elizabeth) is referred to as "fruit" on a
Good time, and live: but for the stock, Sir Thomas, plant ("stock"). Gardiner wants the
I wish it grubb'd up now. plant (Anne) "grubbed up" or pulled
up by the roots. He does not look
kindly on Anne or the religious
changes her marriage to Henry was
partially responsible for.

LOVELL LOVELL
Methinks I could I think I could say amen to that. But my conscience tells me
30 Cry the amen; and yet my conscience says she's a good person and deserves our best wishes for her,
She's a good creature, and, sweet lady, does the sweet lady.
Deserve our better wishes.

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GARDINER GARDINER
But, sir, sir, But sir, sir, listen to me, Sir Thomas. You're a gentleman like
Hear me, Sir Thomas: you're a gentleman me. I know you're wise and religious. Let me tell you, things
35 Of mine own way; I know you wise, religious; will never be all right, they won't, Sir Thomas Lovell,
And, let me tell you, it will ne'er be well, believe me, until Cranmer and Cromwell, her two servants,
'Twill not, Sir Thomas Lovell, take't of me, and she are dead and buried.
Till Cranmer, Cromwell, her two hands, and she,
Sleep in their graves.

LOVELL LOVELL
40 Now, sir, you speak of two Sir, you're talking about two of the most respected men in
The most remark'd i' the kingdom. As for Cromwell, the country. As for Cromwell, he's now in charge of court
Beside that of the jewel house, is made master records in addition to the treasury, and the king's secretary.
O' the rolls, and the king's secretary; further, sir, And, sir, there are more promotions coming to him soon.
Stands in the gap and trade of moe preferments, The archbishop is the king's right hand man and speaks for
45 With which the time will load him. The archbishop him, so who dares say a single word against him?
Is the king's hand and tongue; and who dare speak
One syllable against him?

GARDINER GARDINER
Yes, yes, Sir Thomas, Yes, yes, Sir Thomas, some people dare. I myself have dared
There are that dare; and I myself have ventured to speak my mind about him. In fact today, sir, I can tell you,
50 To speak my mind of him: and indeed this day, I think I convinced the king's counselors that he is, as I
Sir, I may tell it you, I think I have know he is and they know he is, a terrible heretic and a
Incensed the lords o' the council, that he is, disease that has infected the country. They, convinced
For so I know he is, they know he is, about this, have spoken with the king. He has listened to
A most arch heretic, a pestilence our complaint enough to understand what we have said
55 That does infect the land: with which they moved about the disasters in store. Out of fairness and care for the
Have broken with the king; who hath so far country, he has commanded that man to appear at the
Given ear to our complaint, of his great grace counsel meeting tomorrow morning. That man's a
And princely care foreseeing those fell mischiefs disgusting weed, Sir Thomas, and we have to dig him out.
Our reasons laid before him, hath commanded I'm keeping you too long from your business. Good night,
60 To-morrow morning to the council-board Sir Thomas.
He be convented. He's a rank weed, Sir Thomas,
And we must root him out. From your affairs
I hinder you too long: good night, Sir Thomas.

LOVELL LOVELL
Many good nights, my lord: I rest your servant. Good night, my lord. I am still at your service.
65
Exeunt GARDINER and Page GARDINER and his page exit.

Enter KING HENRY VIII and SUFFOLK KING HENRY VIII and SUFFOLK enter.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Charles, I will play no more tonight; Charles, I won't play any more tonight. My mind isn't on it.
My mind's not on't; you are too hard for me. You're too good at it.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
Sir, I did never win of you before. Sir, I've never won against you before.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

But little, Charles; You only won a little money, Charles, and won't when my
70 Nor shall not, when my fancy's on my play. mind is on playing cards. Now, Lovell, what's the news from
Now, Lovell, from the queen what is the news? the queen?

LOVELL LOVELL
I could not personally deliver to her I couldn't personally deliver the message you gave to her,
What you commanded me, but by her woman but I sent it to her through her maid. She thanked you as
I sent your message; who return'd her thanks humbly as possible and asked you to pray for her.
75 In the great'st humbleness, and desired your highness
Most heartily to pray for her.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

What say'st thou, ha? What? What did you say? To pray for her? Is she screaming?
To pray for her? what, is she crying out?

LOVELL LOVELL
So said her woman; and that her sufferance made That's what her maid said. And that she suffered so much at
80 Almost each pang a death. every contraction that she almost died.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Alas, good lady! Poor lady!

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SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
God safely quit her of her burthen, and May God deliver the child safely, with an easy labor, and
With gentle travail, to the gladding of make you happy by giving you an heir!
Your highness with an heir!

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

85 'Tis midnight, Charles; It's midnight, Charles. Please go to bed, and pray for my
Prithee, to bed; and in thy prayers remember poor queen's health. Leave me alone. I have to think about
The estate of my poor queen. Leave me alone; things and need to be alone.
For I must think of that which company
Would not be friendly to.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
90 I wish your highness I hope you have a peaceful night and I will pray for my good
A quiet night; and my good mistress will queen.
Remember in my prayers.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Charles, good night. Charles, goodnight.

Exit SUFFOLK SUFFOLK exits.

Enter DENNY DENNY enters.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

95 Well, sir, what follows? Well, sir, what is it?

DENNY DENNY
Sir, I have brought my lord the archbishop, Sir, I have brought the archbishop as you asked.
As you commanded me.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Ha! Canterbury? What, the archbishop of Canterbury?

DENNY DENNY
100 Ay, my good lord. Yes, my lord.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

'Tis true: where is he, Denny? It's true, I asked to see him. Where is he, Denny?

DENNY DENNY
He attends your highness' pleasure. He's waiting for you, your highness.

Exit DENNY DENNY exits.

LOVELL LOVELL
[Aside] This is about that which the bishop spake: [To himself] This is about the business the bishop told me
105 I am happily come hither. about. I came here at a good time.

Re-enter DENNY, with CRANMER DENNY re-enters with CRANMER.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Avoid the gallery. Empty the room.

LOVELL seems to stay LOVELL seems to want to stay.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Ha! I have said. Be gone. What! I told you what to do. Get out!
110
Exeunt LOVELL and DENNY LOVELL and DENNY exit.

CRANMER CRANMER
[Aside] [To himself] I am afraid. Why does he frown like that? That's
I am fearful: wherefore frowns he thus? how he looks when he's angry. Something is wrong.
'Tis his aspect of terror. All's not well.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

How now, my lord! you desire to know Hello, my lord! You want to know why I sent for you.
115 Wherefore I sent for you.

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CRANMER CRANMER
[Kneeling] It is my duty [Kneeling] It's my duty to do as you wish.
To attend your highness' pleasure.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Pray you, arise, Please, get up, my good lord of Canterbury. Come on, we
My good and gracious Lord of Canterbury. have to walk a little. I have news to tell you. Come on, come
120 Come, you and I must walk a turn together; on, give me your hand. My good lord, I'm sad to have to say
I have news to tell you: come, come, give me your hand. this and I'm sorry to tell you the following: I have, very
Ah, my good lord, I grieve at what I speak, unwillingly, lately heard many terrible, I must say, terrible
And am right sorry to repeat what follows complaints about you. Hearing these complaints made me
I have, and most unwillingly, of late and my council call you before us this morning.
125 Heard many grievous, I do say, my lord, Unfortunately, because it'll take time to clear your name,
Grievous complaints of you; which, being consider'd, you'll have to wait for your trial patiently in the Tower. Since
Have moved us and our council, that you shall you're like my brother, it's right to proceed like this.
This morning come before us; where, I know, Otherwise no witness would dare to appear against you.
You cannot with such freedom purge yourself,
130 But that, till further trial in those charges
Which will require your answer, you must take
Your patience to you, and be well contented
To make your house our Tower: you a brother of us,
It fits we thus proceed, or else no witness
135 Would come against you.

CRANMER CRANMER
[Kneeling] [Kneeling] I thank you humbly, your highness. I'm very
I humbly thank your highness; happy to have this opportunity to be investigated 2 2 Being "winnow'd" (in the original
And am right glad to catch this good occasion thoroughly and judged. I know that no one is more lied text) is a process after the harvest of
Most throughly to be winnow'd, where my chaff about than I am, poor me. grain that separates the grain (the
140 And corn shall fly asunder: for, I know, desirable part) from the chaff (the
inedible husk).
There's none stands under more calumnious tongues
Than I myself, poor man.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Stand up, good Canterbury: Stand up, good Canterbury. I am convinced of your
Thy truth and thy integrity is rooted faithfulness and honesty. Give me your hand, stand up.
145 In us, thy friend: give me thy hand, stand up: Please, let's walk. Now, by the virgin Mary, what kind of
Prithee, let's walk. Now, by my holidame. man are you? My lord, I thought you would ask me to bring
What manner of man are you? My lord, I look'd your accusers to you, and that I'd hear you defend yourself.
You would have given me your petition, that
I should have ta'en some pains to bring together
150 Yourself and your accusers; and to have heard you,
Without indurance, further.

CRANMER CRANMER
Most dread liege, Most powerful king, I stand by my truth and honesty. If they
The good I stand on is my truth and honesty: fail me, I will dislike myself as much as my enemies do. I
If they shall fail, I, with mine enemies, don't care about my body except because of the virtue in it.
155 Will triumph o'er my person; which I weigh not, I'm not afraid of anything that can be said against me.
Being of those virtues vacant. I fear nothing
What can be said against me.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Know you not Don't you know what people think about you, what
How your state stands i' the world, with the whole everyone thinks? You have a lot of enemies, and important
160 world? ones. You should worry about their plotting. It's not always
Your enemies are many, and not small; their practises justice and truth that wins in a lawsuit. Think how easily
Must bear the same proportion; and not ever bad people could find criminals as bad as they are to tell
The justice and the truth o' the question carries lies against you in court. Such things have happened. You
The due o' the verdict with it: at what ease have powerful and evil enemies. Do you think you'll have
165 Might corrupt minds procure knaves as corrupt better luck, I mean luck in avoiding lying witnesses, than
To swear against you? such things have been done. me, the master you serve while I'm alive on this evil earth?
You are potently opposed; and with a malice Really, it's like you think jumping off a cliff isn't dangerous.
Of as great size. Ween you of better luck, You're risking destruction.
I mean, in perjured witness, than your master,
170 Whose minister you are, whiles here he lived
Upon this naughty earth? Go to, go to;
You take a precipice for no leap of danger,
And woo your own destruction.

CRANMER CRANMER
God and your majesty May God and you protect me in my innocence, or I'll fall into
175 Protect mine innocence, or I fall into the trap that's been set for me!
The trap is laid for me!

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KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Be of good cheer; Don't worry. They won't do anything I don't let them do.
They shall no more prevail than we give way to. Take heart and appear before them this morning. If in the
Keep comfort to you; and this morning see course of accusing you they sentence you, make sure to
180 You do appear before them: if they shall chance, argue as hard as you can against it, with whatever force the
In charging you with matters, to commit you, occasion demands. If arguing doesn't help, give them this
The best persuasions to the contrary ring and appeal to me in front of them. Look, the good man
Fail not to use, and with what vehemency is crying! I swear he must be honest. By God's blessed
The occasion shall instruct you: if entreaties mother! I swear he's good-hearted, and there's no better
185 Will render you no remedy, this ring man in my kingdom. Go on and do as I told you.
Deliver them, and your appeal to us
There make before them. Look, the good man weeps!
He's honest, on mine honour. God's blest mother!
I swear he is true-hearted; and a soul
190 None better in my kingdom. Get you gone,
And do as I have bid you.

Exit CRANMER CRANMER exits.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

He has strangled He can't talk through his tears.
His language in his tears.

Enter the OLD LADY; enter LOVELL, following her An OLD LADY enters, with LOVELL following her.

GENTLEMAN GENTLEMAN
195 [Within] Come back: what mean you? [Inside] Come back: what are you doing?

OLD LADY OLD LADY

I'll not come back; the tidings that I bring I won't come back. The news I bring will make my rudeness
Will make my boldness manners. Now, good angels seem like good manners. May good angels fly over your
Fly o'er thy royal head, and shade thy person royal head and shade you with their holy wings!
Under their blessed wings!

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

200 Now, by thy looks I can guess what you'll say from looking at you. Has the
I guess thy message. Is the queen deliver'd? queen given birth? Say yes, and to a boy.
Say, ay; and of a boy.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

Ay, ay, my liege; Yes, yes, my king. And to a beautiful boy: may God bless her
And of a lovely boy: the God of heaven now and forever! It's a girl, who guarantees boys will be
205 Both now and ever bless her! 'tis a girl, born later. Sir, your queen wants you to visit her so you can
Promises boys hereafter. Sir, your queen meet this stranger who looks as much like you as a cherry
Desires your visitation, and to be looks like a cherry.
Acquainted with this stranger 'tis as like you
As cherry is to cherry.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

210 Lovell! Lovell!

LOVELL LOVELL
Sir? Sir?

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Give her an hundred marks. I'll to the queen. Pay her a hundred marks 3 . I'll go see the queen. 3 A "mark" is a coin valued at about
two-thirds of a British pound.

Exit HENRY VIII exits.

OLD LADY OLD LADY

An hundred marks! By this light, I'll ha' more. A hundred marks! I swear I'll get more. That's what you pay
215 An ordinary groom is for such payment. an ordinary groom for taking care of your horse. I'll get
I will have more, or scold it out of him. more or keep scolding him till I get it. Did I say the girl
Said I for this, the girl was like to him? looked like him for this? I'll have more or I'll take that back.
I will have more, or else unsay't; and now, Now, I'll ask for more while there's still a chance.
While it is hot, I'll put it to the issue.

Exeunt They exit.

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Act 5, Scene 2
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Before the council-chamber. Poursuivants, pages, etc., attending. In front of the council-chamber, various servants are
waiting.

Enter CRANMER CRANMER enters.

CRANMER CRANMER
I hope I am not too late; and yet the gentleman, I hope I'm not too late. But the gentleman sent to me by the
That was sent to me from the council, pray'd me council asked me to hurry. Locked? What does this mean?
To make great haste. All fast? what means this? Ho! Hello? Who's waiting there? Don't you recognize me?
Who waits there? Sure, you know me?

Enter Keeper The KEEPER enters.

KEEPER KEEPER
5 Yes, my lord; Yes, my lord, but I can't help you.
But yet I cannot help you.

CRANMER CRANMER
Why? Why?

Enter DOCTOR BUTTS DOCTOR BUTTS enters.

KEEPER KEEPER
Your grace must wait till you be call'd for. You have to wait until you're called.

CRANMER CRANMER
10 So. All right.

DOCTOR BUTTS DOCTOR BUTTS

[Aside] This is a piece of malice. I am glad [To himself] This is some evil scheme. I'm glad I happened
I came this way so happily: the king to come this way. The king will hear about this at once.
Shall understand it presently.

Exit DOCTOR BUTTS exits.

CRANMER CRANMER
15 [Aside] 'Tis Butts, [To himself] That was Butts, the king's physician. He looked
The king's physician: as he pass'd along, at me so earnestly as he passed! I pray he doesn't spread
How earnestly he cast his eyes upon me! the word about my disgrace! This must have been done on
Pray heaven, he sound not my disgrace! For certain, purpose by some people who hate me--may God change
This is of purpose laid by some that hate me-- their minds! I never wanted to make enemies of them. They
20 God turn their hearts! I never sought their malice-- must want to dishonor me, or they would be ashamed to
To quench mine honour: they would shame to make me make me wait at the door, a council-member like them,
Wait else at door, a fellow-counsellor, among all sorts of servants. But I have to do what they
'Mong boys, grooms, and lackeys. But their pleasures want, and I'm waiting patiently.
Must be fulfill'd, and I attend with patience.

Enter KING HENRY VIII and DOCTOR BUTTS at a window above KING HENRY VIII and DOCTOR BUTTS enter at a window
above.

DOCTOR BUTTS DOCTOR BUTTS

25 I'll show your grace the strangest sight-- I'll show you the strangest sight--

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

What's that, Butts? What's that, Butts?

DOCTOR BUTTS DOCTOR BUTTS

I think your highness saw this many a day. I think you've seen in many days.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Body o' me, where is it? Goodness, where?

DOCTOR BUTTS DOCTOR BUTTS

There, my lord: There, my lord. The good treatment of the archbishop of
30 The high promotion of his grace of Canterbury; Canterbury, who's waiting at the door among petitioners
Who holds his state at door, 'mongst pursuivants, and servants.

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Pages, and footboys.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Ha! 'tis he, indeed: What? Yes, it's him. Is this the way they treat each other? It's
Is this the honour they do one another? good there's still someone more important than them. I
35 'Tis well there's one above 'em yet. I had thought thought they had enough honesty between them, or at
They had parted so much honesty among 'em least good manners, not to make a man of his importance
At least, good manners, as not thus to suffer and good standing with me wait for their attention, and at
A man of his place, and so near our favour, the door, too, as if he were a postman delivering packages.
To dance attendance on their lordships' pleasures, But, by holy Mary, Butts, this is vicious. Leave them alone
40 And at the door too, like a post with packets. and let's close the curtain. We'll hear more soon.
By holy Mary, Butts, there's knavery:
Let 'em alone, and draw the curtain close:
We shall hear more anon.

Exeunt They exit.

Act 5, Scene 3
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter Chancellor; places himself at the upper end of the table on the The CHANCELLOR enters and sits at the upper end of the
left hand; a seat being left void above him, as for CRANMER's seat. table on the left side. A seat is left empty next to him for
SUFFOLK, NORFOLK, SURREY, Chamberlain, GARDINER, seat CRANMER. SUFFOLK, NORFOLK, SURREY, CHAMBERLAIN,
themselves in order on each side. CROMWELL at lower end, as GARDINER, sit in that order on either side of
secretary. Keeper at the door him. CROMWELL sits at the lower end as the secretary. The
KEEPER is at the door.

CHANCELLOR CHANCELLOR
Speak to the business, master-secretary: Tell us about this business, secretary. Why has the council
Why are we met in council? met?

CROMWELL CROMWELL
Please your honours, Your honors, the main reason is the archbishop of
The chief cause concerns his grace of Canterbury. Canterbury.

GARDINER GARDINER
5 Has he had knowledge of it? Does he know about it?

CROMWELL CROMWELL
Yes. Yes.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Who waits there? Who's waiting there?

KEEPER KEEPER
Without, my noble lords? Outside, my noble lords?

GARDINER GARDINER
Yes. Yes.

KEEPER KEEPER
10 My lord archbishop; The archbishop. He's waited half an hour to hear what you
And has done half an hour, to know your pleasures. want.

CHANCELLOR CHANCELLOR
Let him come in. Let him in.

KEEPER KEEPER
Your grace may enter now. You can enter now, your grace.

CRANMER enters and approaches the council-table CRANMER enters and approaches the council-table.

CHANCELLOR CHANCELLOR
15 My good lord archbishop, I'm very sorry My lord archbishop, I'm very sorry to sit here now and see
To sit here at this present, and behold that chair remain empty. But we are all men with weak
That chair stand empty: but we all are men, natures and our bodies can have power over us. There
In our own natures frail, and capable aren't many angels. It's this weakness, as well as a lack of

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Of our flesh; few are angels: out of which frailty wisdom, that made you act badly, very badly, towards the
20 And want of wisdom, you, that best should teach us, king and his laws--you, who should provide a good example
Have misdemean'd yourself, and not a little, for us all. We've been told you've filled the whole country,
Toward the king first, then his laws, in filling by teaching and appointing priests who agree with you,
The whole realm, by your teaching and your chaplains, with new opinions that are different and dangerous.
For so we are inform'd, with new opinions, They're heresies and if they're not stopped they might be
25 Divers and dangerous; which are heresies, bad for the country.
And, not reform'd, may prove pernicious.

GARDINER GARDINER
Which reformation must be sudden too, They have to be stopped at once, my noble lords. People
My noble lords; for those that tame wild horses who tame wild horses don't lead them in their hands to
Pace 'em not in their hands to make 'em gentle, tame them but they put hard bits 1 in their mouths and 1 Gardiner refers to two pieces of
30 But stop their mouths with stubborn bits, and spur 'em, spur them until they obey commands. If we allow this equipment for training horses. "Bits"
Till they obey the manage. If we suffer, contagious sickness to go on without stopping it because are metal bars in horses' mouths
Out of our easiness and childish pity we're too forgiving and childishly pity one man, medicine connected to the reins, and "spurs"
are sharp metal pieces worn on the
To one man's honour, this contagious sickness, won't be able to help us. What then? Riots, uproar, foot to dig into the horse's side.
Farewell all physic: and what follows then? complete destruction of the whole country. Lately our
35 Commotions, uproars, with a general taint neighbor, northern Germany, has shown us what happens 2 Gardiner, in mentioning the
Of the whole state: as, of late days, our neighbours, when heresy takes over 2 , and we're still pitying their "commotions" in "upper Germany" (in
The upper Germany, can dearly witness, recent disaster. the original text), alludes to revolts
linked to the Protestant sect of
Yet freshly pitied in our memories. Lutheranism. The 1524 Peasants'
Revolt in Saxony was supported by
the Protestant clergy.

CRANMER CRANMER
My good lords, hitherto, in all the progress My good lords, so far, in both my daily life and my job, I
40 Both of my life and office, I have labour'd, have worked and studied hard to make my teaching and my
And with no little study, that my teaching power lead safely to one thing. This goal was always to do
And the strong course of my authority the right thing. There is no one alive, and I say this honestly
Might go one way, and safely; and the end my lords, who hates or works harder to stop people who
Was ever, to do well: nor is there living, cause public disruptions, either in his private thoughts or
45 I speak it with a single heart, my lords, his public office, than I do. I pray to God the king will always
A man that more detests, more stirs against, be surrounded by people as loyal as I am to him! Men
Both in his private conscience and his place, whose lives are full of envy and evil resentment dare to
Defacers of a public peace, than I do. attack even the best people. I beg you, my lords, to bring
Pray heaven, the king may never find a heart my accusers (whoever they are) face to face with me to
50 With less allegiance in it! Men that make accuse me in this trial.
Envy and crooked malice nourishment
Dare bite the best. I do beseech your lordships,
That, in this case of justice, my accusers,
Be what they will, may stand forth face to face,
55 And freely urge against me.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
Nay, my lord, No, my lord, that can't happen. You're a councilor and
That cannot be: you are a counsellor, because of that no one dares to accuse you.
And, by that virtue, no man dare accuse you.

GARDINER GARDINER
My lord, because we have business of more moment, My lord, we'll hurry this along because we have more
60 We will be short with you. 'Tis his highness' pleasure, important business. The king wishes and we agree that you
And our consent, for better trial of you, should be imprisoned in the Tower. Then you'll be just a
From hence you be committed to the Tower; private citizen again and you'll find out who dares to accuse
Where, being but a private man again, you. It'll be more people, I'm afraid, than you're ready to
You shall know many dare accuse you boldly, face.
65 More than, I fear, you are provided for.

CRANMER CRANMER
Ah, my good Lord of Winchester, I thank you; Ah, thank you, my good lord of Winchester. You have always
You are always my good friend; if your will pass, been my good friend. If you do what you want, you're so
I shall both find your lordship judge and juror, merciful that you will act as both judge and jury to me. I see
You are so merciful: I see your end; your goal: it's to destroy me. Love and humility are more
70 'Tis my undoing: love and meekness, lord, fitting for a churchman than ambition, lord. Win back
Become a churchman better than ambition: sinners by being modest: don't banish them. I have less
Win straying souls with modesty again, doubt that I will clear my name, whatever you make me
Cast none away. That I shall clear myself, suffer in the meantime, than you have any doubts about
Lay all the weight ye can upon my patience, whether you should be doing evil things every day. I could
75 I make as little doubt, as you do conscience say more, but respect for your job makes me modest.
In doing daily wrongs. I could say more,
But reverence to your calling makes me modest.

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GARDINER GARDINER
My lord, my lord, you are a sectary, My lord, my lord, you're a heretic 3 . That's the simple 3 In the original text, Gardiner calls
That's the plain truth: your painted gloss discovers, truth. Men who understand you can see there's nothing Cranmer a "sectary"--one who
80 To men that understand you, words and weakness. under your false appearance but words and weakness. supports a group that has separated
itself from the established church.
Gardiner supported Henry VIII's
division from the pope, but rejected
other matters of Protestant doctrine
supported by Cranmer.

CROMWELL CROMWELL
My Lord of Winchester, you are a little, My Lord of Winchester, excuse me but you're a little too
By your good favour, too sharp; men so noble, rude. Noble men, whatever their faults, should be
However faulty, yet should find respect respected for what they once were. It's cruel to kick a man
For what they have been: 'tis a cruelty when he's down.
85 To load a falling man.

GARDINER GARDINER
Good master secretary, Secretary, I'm sorry. You have the least right of anyone here
I cry your honour mercy; you may, worst to say that.
Of all this table, say so.

CROMWELL CROMWELL
Why, my lord? Why, my lord?

GARDINER GARDINER
90 Do not I know you for a favourer Don't I know you're a follower of this new religion? You are
Of this new sect? ye are not sound. not trustworthy.

CROMWELL CROMWELL
Not sound? Not trustworthy?

GARDINER GARDINER
Not sound, I say. Not trustworthy, that's what I said.

CROMWELL CROMWELL
Would you were half so honest! I wish you were half as honest as I am trustworthy! Then
95 Men's prayers then would seek you, not their fears. men would pray for you, not fear you.

GARDINER GARDINER
I shall remember this bold language. I'll remember this arrogant language.

CROMWELL CROMWELL
Do. Do. Remember your arrogant life too.
Remember your bold life too.

CHANCELLOR CHANCELLOR
This is too much; This is too much. Stop this--you should be ashamed of
100 Forbear, for shame, my lords. yourselves, my lords.

GARDINER GARDINER
I have done. I'm done.

CROMWELL CROMWELL
And I. So am I.

CHANCELLOR CHANCELLOR
Then thus for you, my lord: it stands agreed, So as for you, my lord, I take it we've all agreed that you'll
I take it, by all voices, that forthwith be taken immediately to the Tower as a prisoner. You'll stay
105 You be convey'd to the Tower a prisoner; there as a prisoner until we know what the king wants.
There to remain till the king's further pleasure Have you all agreed, lords?
Be known unto us: are you all agreed, lords?

ALL ALL
We are. We have.

CRANMER CRANMER
Is there no other way of mercy, Is there no other way? Do I have to go to the Tower, my
110 But I must needs to the Tower, my lords? lords?

GARDINER GARDINER
What other What other way do you expect? You're unusually annoying.
Would you expect? you are strangely troublesome. Let's have some guards in here.

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Let some o' the guard be ready there.

Enter Guard A guard enters.

CRANMER CRANMER
115 For me? For me? Must I be led there like a traitor?
Must I go like a traitor thither?

GARDINER GARDINER
Receive him, Take him and put him safely in the Tower.
And see him safe i' the Tower.

CRANMER CRANMER
Stay, good my lords, Wait, my good lords, I still have a few things to say. Look
120 I have a little yet to say. Look there, my lords; here, my lords. By the power of this ring, I take my cause
By virtue of that ring, I take my cause out of the hands of cruel men and give it to a noble judge,
Out of the gripes of cruel men, and give it the king my master.
To a most noble judge, the king my master.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
This is the king's ring. This is the king's ring.

SURREY SURREY
125 'Tis no counterfeit. It's not a fake.

SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
'Tis the right ring, by heaven: I told ye all, That's the ring, by heaven. I told you when you started this
When ye first put this dangerous stone a-rolling, dangerous business that it would backfire on us.
'Twould fall upon ourselves.

NORFOLK NORFOLK
Do you think, my lords, My lords, do you think the king will allow even this man's
130 The king will suffer but the little finger little finger to get hurt?
Of this man to be vex'd?

CHANCELLOR CHANCELLOR
'Tis now too certain: Now it's all too clear. His life is worth so much more to the
How much more is his life in value with him? king than his little finger! I wish I had nothing to do with
Would I were fairly out on't! this!

CROMWELL CROMWELL
135 My mind gave me, I was already worried, looking for stories and information
In seeking tales and informations against this man who's so honest that the devil and his
Against this man, whose honesty the devil minions can only envy him, not hurt him. You're the reason
And his disciples only envy at, I'm in trouble now, damn you!
Ye blew the fire that burns ye: now have at ye!

Enter KING, frowning on them; takes his seat The KING enters, frowning at them, and sits.

GARDINER GARDINER
140 Dread sovereign, how much are we bound to heaven Powerful king, we're so grateful every day to God for giving
In daily thanks, that gave us such a prince; us a king like you! You're not just good and wise, but very
Not only good and wise, but most religious: religious. You're someone who obediently works for the
One that, in all obedience, makes the church good of the church. And, to strengthen that holy tie
The chief aim of his honour; and, to strengthen between the king and the church, you come yourself as a
145 That holy duty, out of dear respect, judge to hear the case between it and this terrible criminal.
His royal self in judgment comes to hear
The cause betwixt her and this great offender.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

You were ever good at sudden commendations, You were always good at sudden flattery, Bishop of
Bishop of Winchester. But know, I come not Winchester. But I haven't come to be flattered to my face
150 To hear such flattery now, and in my presence; like that now. That flattery is too thin and bare to hide
They are too thin and bare to hide offences. crimes behind. You can't reach me like that. You act like a
To me you cannot reach, you play the spaniel, dog and think wagging your tongue will win me over. But,
And think with wagging of your tongue to win me; whatever you take me for, I'm sure you have a cruel and
But, whatsoe'er thou takest me for, I'm sure bloody nature.
155 Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody.
[To CRANMER] [To CRANMER] Sit down, you good man. Now let me just see
Good man, sit down. Now let me see the proudest a man arrogant enough even just to wag his finger at you.
He, that dares most, but wag his finger at thee: By everything that's holy, he would be better off starving to
160 By all that's holy, he had better starve death than even thinking once that you don't deserve to sit
Than but once think this place becomes thee not. here.

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SURREY SURREY
May it please your grace,-- Please, your grace--

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

No, sir, it does not please me. No, sir, it does not please me. I thought I had men of some
I had thought I had had men of some understanding intelligence and wisdom on my council, but I can't see any.
165 And wisdom of my council; but I find none. Was it wise, lords, to let this man, this good man--few of you
Was it discretion, lords, to let this man, deserve that title--this honest man, wait like a lice-covered
This good man,--few of you deserve that title,-- servant at the door? A man as important as you are? What a
This honest man, wait like a lousy footboy shameful thing to do! Did I give you permission to do
At chamber--door? and one as great as you are? something so unworthy of you? I gave you power to try his
170 Why, what a shame was this! Did my commission case as a councilor, not a servant. There are some of you, I
Bid ye so far forget yourselves? I gave ye see, who would give him the death penalty if you could,
Power as he was a counsellor to try him, more out of resentment than honesty. You will never be
Not as a groom: there's some of ye, I see, able to do that while I am alive.
More out of malice than integrity,
175 Would try him to the utmost, had ye mean;
Which ye shall never have while I live.

CHANCELLOR CHANCELLOR
Thus far, My extremely powerful king, please let me tell you our
My most dread sovereign, may it like your grace excuses. We meant to imprison him more, I swear, because
To let my tongue excuse all. What was purposed we needed to try him and show that we had done so fairly,
180 Concerning his imprisonment, was rather, than out of resentment--at least on my part, I'm sure.
If there be faith in men, meant for his trial,
And fair purgation to the world, than malice,
I'm sure, in me.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Well, well, my lords, respect him; All right, my lords, respect him. Take him and treat him
185 Take him, and use him well, he's worthy of it. well--he deserves it. I will say this much for him: if a prince
I will say thus much for him, if a prince can owe anything to a subject, I owe him for his love and
May be beholding to a subject, I service to me. Don't make any more fuss, but hug him, all of
Am, for his love and service, so to him. you. Be friends, my lords, honestly! My Lord of Canterbury, I
Make me no more ado, but all embrace him: have a request you can't deny. That is, there's a beautiful 4 The "fair young maid" is the
190 Be friends, for shame, my lords! My Lord of young girl 4 who still needs to be baptized. You must be newborn Princess Elizabeth.
Canterbury, her godfather in the ceremony.
I have a suit which you must not deny me;
That is, a fair young maid that yet wants baptism,
You must be godfather, and answer for her.

CRANMER CRANMER
195 The greatest monarch now alive may glory The greatest king alive would be proud of this honor. How
In such an honour: how may I deserve it can I deserve it, when I am just a poor, humble, subject of
That am a poor and humble subject to you? yours?

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Come, come, my lord, you'ld spare your spoons: you Come, come, my lord, you just don't want to pay for a gift.
shall have two noble partners with you; the old There will be two other nobles as godparents too: the old
200 Duchess of Norfolk, and Lady Marquess Dorset: will Duchess of Norfolk and Lady Marquess Dorset. Do they
these please you? sound good to you? Once more, my Lord of Winchester, I
Once more, my Lord of Winchester, I charge you, command you to hug and love this man.
Embrace and love this man.

GARDINER GARDINER
With a true heart I do it with an honest heart and brotherly love.
205 And brother-love I do it.

CRANMER CRANMER
And let heaven Let God be my witness that I am very happy about this
Witness, how dear I hold this confirmation. confirmation of friendship.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Good man, those joyful tears show thy true heart: Good man, your happy tears show your honesty. I see that
The common voice, I see, is verified everyone is right in saying about you, "Do a favor for my
210 Of thee, which says thus, 'Do my Lord of Canterbury Lord of Canterbury and he will be your friend forever."
A shrewd turn, and he is your friend for ever.' Come on, lords, we're wasting time. I can't wait for this
Come, lords, we trifle time away; I long young one to be made a Christian. Now that I've united all
To have this young one made a Christian. of you, lords, stay that way. That'll make me stronger and
As I have made ye one, lords, one remain; you more honorable.
215 So I grow stronger, you more honour gain.

Exeunt They exit.

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Act 5, Scene 4
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Noise and tumult within. Enter Porter and his Man There are loud noises inside. The PORTER and his SERVANT
enter.

PORTER PORTER
You'll leave your noise anon, ye rascals: do you Stop this noise now, you jerks. Do you think the court is a
take the court for Paris-garden? ye rude slaves, public amusement park? You rude slaves, shut your
leave your gaping. mouths.

VOice from inside voice from inside

5 Good master porter, I belong to the larder. Mister porter, I work in the kitchen.

PORTER PORTER
Belong to the gallows, and be hanged, ye rogue! is Work in a noose and be hanged, you rogue! Is this
this a place to roar in? Fetch me a dozen crab-tree somewhere to roar? Get me a dozen wooden poles, and
staves, and strong ones: these are but switches to strong ones. These ones are just twigs compared to those.
'em. I'll scratch your heads: you must be seeing I'll scratch your heads. You insist on seeing baptisms? Do
10 christenings? do you look for ale and cakes here, you expect beer and cake here, you rude jerks?
you rude rascals?

MAN MAN
Pray, sir, be patient: 'tis as much impossible-- Please sir, calm down. It's impossible--unless we blast them
Unless we sweep 'em from the door with cannons-- away from the door with cannons--to make them go away,
To scatter 'em, as 'tis to make 'em sleep as impossible as making them sleep on May-day morning 1 1 "May-day," May 1st, is a spring
15 On May-day morning; which will never be: . That will never happen. We might as well be pushing festival and public holiday. It is
We may as well push against Powle's, as stir em. against St. Paul's cathedral, they'll be just as hard to move. celebrated with singing and dancing
around the may pole (a pole adorned
with flowers, to which ribbons are
attached for the dancers to hold).

PORTER PORTER
How got they in, and be hang'd? How did they get in, damn you?

MAN MAN
Alas, I know not; how gets the tide in? I don't know. How does the tide get in? I didn't spare my
As much as one sound cudgel of four foot-- four-foot long staff in hitting them. You see what's left of it.
20 You see the poor remainder--could distribute,
I made no spare, sir.

PORTER PORTER
You did nothing, sir. You did nothing, sir.

MAN MAN
I am not Samson, nor Sir Guy, nor Colbrand, I'm not a hero like Samson or Sir Guy or Colbrand 2 . I 2 "Samson" is a biblical figure,
To mow 'em down before me: but if I spared any couldn't mow them down in front of me. I didn't refrain while "Sir Guy" and "Colbrand" are
25 That had a head to hit, either young or old, from hitting anyone's head, young or old, man or woman, from popular legend. Each was known
He or she, cuckold or cuckold-maker, anyone with an unfaithful wife or anyone cheating with for his strength.
Let me ne'er hope to see a chine again someone else's wife. If I did, let me never see meat again,
And that I would not for a cow, God save her! and I wouldn't make that bargain in exchange for a cow,
God bless it!

Within From inside

Do you hear, master porter? Are you listening, mister porter?

PORTER PORTER
I shall be with you presently, good master puppy. I'll be with you soon, mister dog. Keep the door closed, you.
30 Keep the door close, sirrah.

MAN MAN
What would you have me do? What do you want me to do?

PORTER PORTER
What should you do, but knock 'em down by the What would you do except knock them down by the
dozens? Is this Moorfields to muster in? or have dozens? Is this a public field to meet in? Or do we have
we some strange Indian with the great tool come to some strange Indian with a huge tool visiting court to make
35 court, the women so besiege us? Bless me, what a the women attack us like this? Bless me, what a fornicating
fry of fornication is at door! On my Christian mob is at the door! On my Christian conscience, this one
conscience, this one christening will beget a

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thousand; here will be father, godfather, and all baptism will cause a thousand more. Here are the future
together. fathers and godfathers all gathered together.

MAN MAN
40 The spoons will be the bigger, sir. There is a The presents will be all the bigger, sir. There's a fellow kind
fellow somewhat near the door, he should be a of near the door. I think he's a smith 3 from his face, 3 A "brazier" or smith is someone
brazier by his face, for, o' my conscience, twenty because his face looks as hot as the dog days of summer. who works with metal, which requires
of the dog-days now reign in's nose; all that stand Everyone standing around him is in the southern the use of fire to make the material
about him are under the line, they need no other hemisphere. They don't need to burn in hell because malleable. The puns in this speech
stem from different qualities of fire (its
45 penance: that fire-drake did I hit three times on they're already in it. I hit that dragon three times on the heat, its association with dragons,
the head, and three times was his nose discharged head and three times his nose was discharged at me. He etc.)
against me; he stands there, like a mortar-piece, to stands there like a bomb ready to blow us up. There was a
blow us. There was a haberdasher's wife of small dumb clothes-seller's wife near him who shouted at me
wit near him, that railed upon me till her pinked until her hat, which looked like a decorated bowl, fell off her
50 porringer fell off her head, for kindling such a head, for starting such a fire in the country. I missed the
combustion in the state. I missed the meteor once, meteor-like man once and hit that woman. She cried out
and hit that woman; who cried out 'Clubs!' when I "clubs!" and I could see about forty people with clubs run 4 "The Strand" was (and is) a
might see from far some forty truncheoners draw to to help her. They were the best hope in the Strand 4 , popular street in London, located near
her succor, which were the hope o' the Strand, where where she was. They attacked. I defended myself. Finally the modern-day Trafalgar Square.
55 she was quartered. They fell on; I made good my they were hitting me and I kept defying them. Suddenly, a
place: at length they came to the broom-staff to group of boys behind them threw such a number of pebbles
me; I defied 'em still: when suddenly a file of that I had to let them win the battle. The devil was fighting
boys behind 'em, loose shot, delivered such a shower with them, for sure.
of pebbles, that I was fain to draw mine honour in,
60 and let 'em win the work: the devil was amongst
'em, I think, surely.

PORTER PORTER
These are the youths that thunder at a playhouse, Those are the boys who make such noise at a play and fight
and fight for bitten apples; that no audience, but for bitten apples. No audience except the worst ones at 5 "Tower-hill" and "Limehouse"
the tribulation of Tower-hill, or the limbs of Tower-hill or the similar ones at Limehouse 5 can stand were rough neighborhoods. Tower Hill
65 Limehouse, their dear brothers, are able to endure. them. I have some of them locked up and they'll stay there was the area where public executions
I have some of 'em in Limbo Patrum, and there they for three days. And the noise will be worse when the were held, and Limehouse was a
dockyard area.
are like to dance these three days; besides the officials meant to keep the peace arrive.
running banquet of two beadles that is to come.

Enter Chamberlain CHAMBERLAIN enters.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
Mercy o' me, what a multitude are here! Lord, what a crowd is here! It's still growing, too. They're
70 They grow still too; from all parts they are coming, coming from everywhere as if this were a fair! Where are
As if we kept a fair here! Where are these porters, those porters, those lazy good-for-nothings? You've done
These lazy knaves? Ye have made a fine hand, fellows: well, fellows. You've let in a nice crowd. Are these all your
There's a trim rabble let in: are all these good friends from town? No doubt we'll have plenty of
Your faithful friends o' the suburbs? We shall have room left for the ladies when they come back from the
75 Great store of room, no doubt, left for the ladies, baptism.
When they pass back from the christening.

PORTER PORTER
An't please Your honor, we're only human. And we've done what two
your honour, men can do without being torn to pieces. An army couldn't
We are but men; and what so many may do, stop them.
80 Not being torn a-pieces, we have done:
An army cannot rule 'em.

CHAMBERLAIN CHAMBERLAIN
As I live, I swear if the king blames me for it, I'll knock you over
If the king blame me for't, I'll lay ye all immediately. And I'll fine you for neglecting your jobs.
By the heels, and suddenly; and on your heads You're lazy good-for-nothings. You lie here drinking when
85 Clap round fines for neglect: ye are lazy knaves; you should be working. Listen! The trumpets are sounding.
And here ye lie baiting of bombards, when They've already come from the baptism. Go on, make a
Ye should do service. Hark! the trumpets sound; break in the crowd to let them pass. Or I'll find a jail to hold
They're come already from the christening: you for two months.
Go, break among the press, and find a way out
90 To let the troop pass fairly; or I'll find
A Marshalsea shall hold ye play these two months.

PORTER PORTER
Make way there for the princess. Make room for the princess.

MAN MAN
You great fellow, You big fellow, make room or I'll make your head ache.
Stand close up, or I'll make your head ache.

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PORTER PORTER
95 You i' the camlet, get up o' the rail; You in the camel-hair cloth, get on the fence or I'll throw
I'll peck you o'er the pales else. you over it.

Exeunt They exit.

Act 5, Scene 5
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

Enter trumpets, sounding; then two Aldermen, Lord Mayor, GARTER, Trumpet players enter. Then two aldermen, the Lord Mayor,
CRANMER, NORFOLK with his marshal's staff, SUFFOLK, two GARTER, CRANMER, NORFOLK with his marshal's staff,
Noblemen bearing great standing-bowls for the christening-gifts; then SUFFOLK, two noblemen carrying large bowls on stands for
four Noblemen bearing a canopy, under which the Duchess of the baptism gifts. Then four noblemen enter carrying a
Norfolk, godmother, bearing the child richly habited in a mantle, & c., canopy, under which the Duchess of Norfolk, the
train borne by a Lady; then follows the Marchioness Dorset, the other godmother, carrying the child beautifully dressed in a cloak
godmother, and Ladies. The troop pass once about the stage, and and other things. Her train is carried by a Lady. Then the
GARTER speaks Marchioness Dorset, the other godmother, follows with
Ladies. They pass once around the stage and GARTER
speaks.

GARTER GARTER
Heaven, from thy endless goodness, send prosperous From your endless supply of goodness, God, send a lucky,
life, long, and ever happy, to the high and mighty long, and happy life to the powerful princess of England,
princess of England, Elizabeth! Elizabeth!

Flourish. Enter KING HENRY VIII and Guard Trumpets sound. KING HENRY VIII and a guard enter.

CRANMER CRANMER
5 [Kneeling] And to your royal grace, and the good queen, [Kneeling] Your grace, you, the good queen, my noble
My noble partners, and myself, thus pray: fellow-godparents, and I pray in this way: may heaven give
All comfort, joy, in this most gracious lady, you all the comfort and joy in this princess that ever made
Heaven ever laid up to make parents happy, parents happy every hour!
May hourly fall upon ye!

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

10 Thank you, good lord archbishop: Thank you, lord archbishop. What is her name?
What is her name?

CRANMER CRANMER
Elizabeth. Elizabeth.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Stand up, lord. Stand up, lord.

KING HENRY VIII kisses the child KING HENRY VIII kisses the child.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

15 With this kiss take my blessing: God protect thee! Take my blessing with this kiss. May God protect you! I trust
Into whose hand I give thy life. him to keep you safe.

CRANMER CRANMER
Amen. Amen.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

My noble gossips, ye have been too prodigal: My noble friends, you have been too generous. Thank you
20 I thank ye heartily; so shall this lady, very much. This girl will thank you too when she learns
When she has so much English. enough English.

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CRANMER CRANMER
Let me speak, sir, Let me speak, sir, because now God tells me to. I hope no
For heaven now bids me; and the words I utter one thinks that the words I say are flattery, because they'll
Let none think flattery, for they'll find 'em truth. find them to be true. This royal child--may God be with her
25 This royal infant--heaven still move about her!-- always!--although still a baby, promises to bring a
Though in her cradle, yet now promises thousand, thousand blessings to this country in time. She
Upon this land a thousand thousand blessings, will be--few alive now will live to see this goodness--an
Which time shall bring to ripeness: she shall be-- example for all the kings alive then, and all to come. This
But few now living can behold that goodness-- pure soul will have as much wisdom and virtue as the
30 A pattern to all princes living with her, queen of Sheba wished for. She'll have double all the royal
And all that shall succeed: Saba was never qualities that go into making someone as powerful as this
More covetous of wisdom and fair virtue along with all the virtues that good people have. Truth will
Than this pure soul shall be: all princely graces, raise her, holy and religious thoughts will advise her always,
That mould up such a mighty piece as this is, she will be loved and feared, her family and friends will
35 With all the virtues that attend the good, bless her, her enemies will shake in fear like a field of
Shall still be doubled on her: truth shall nurse her, beaten corn and hang their heads in sorrow. Goodness will
Holy and heavenly thoughts still counsel her: grow as she grows. In her life everyone will eat what he
She shall be loved and fear'd: her own shall bless her; plants safely in his own field and sing the happy songs of
Her foes shake like a field of beaten corn, peace to all his neighbors. God will be truly understood and
40 And hang their heads with sorrow: good grows with her: those around her will learn how to be honorable from her 1 The "phoenix" is a mythical bird
In her days every man shall eat in safety, and will be great because of that, not because they come that is reborn from its own ashes.
Under his own vine, what he plants; and sing from good families. Nor will this peace die with her. But like
2 The new "heir" mentioned here is
The merry songs of peace to all his neighbours: when that amazing bird, the virgin phoenix 1 , dies, a new
God shall be truly known; and those about her heir 2 as amazing as she was will be born from her ashes. James I of England (also known as
James VI of Scotland), who became
45 From her shall read the perfect ways of honour, So someone will inherit her blessings who will rise like a king when Elizabeth died childless.
And by those claim their greatness, not by blood. star from the holy ashes of her honor and stay firmly in the This section is meant as a compliment
Nor shall this peace sleep with her: but as when sky when heaven calls her from this dark cloud, the earth. to James, who reigned when this play
The bird of wonder dies, the maiden phoenix, Peace, plenty, love, truth, terror, which served this chosen was first performed.
Her ashes new create another heir, baby, will belong to him and grow on him like a vine.
50 As great in admiration as herself; Wherever the bright sun shines, his honor and the
So shall she leave her blessedness to one, greatness of his name will be found and will create new
When heaven shall call her from this cloud of darkness, countries. He will grow and, like a tree on a mountain,
Who from the sacred ashes of her honour reach his branches over all the plains around him. Our
Shall star-like rise, as great in fame as she was, children's children will see this and bless God.
55 And so stand fix'd: peace, plenty, love, truth, terror,
That were the servants to this chosen infant,
Shall then be his, and like a vine grow to him:
Wherever the bright sun of heaven shall shine,
His honour and the greatness of his name
60 Shall be, and make new nations: he shall flourish,
And, like a mountain cedar, reach his branches
To all the plains about him: our children's children
Shall see this, and bless heaven.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

Thou speakest wonders. You say amazing things.

CRANMER CRANMER
65 She shall be, to the happiness of England, She will live to be an old queen and make England happy.
An aged princess; many days shall see her, She will live many days and do a great deed on every one. I
And yet no day without a deed to crown it. wish I knew nothing more! But she must die, she must, the
Would I had known no more! but she must die, saints must have her. Still a virgin, a pure flower, she will fall
She must, the saints must have her; yet a virgin, to the ground and the whole world will miss her.
70 A most unspotted lily shall she pass
To the ground, and all the world shall mourn her.

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

O lord archbishop, Oh, lord archbishop, now you've made me a man! It's like I
Thou hast made me now a man! never, before never made anything before I conceived this happy child.
This happy child, did I get any thing: This comforting prophecy has pleased me so much that
75 This oracle of comfort has so pleased me, when I am in heaven I will want to see what this child does,
That when I am in heaven I shall desire and praise God. I thank you all. I am very thankful to you,
To see what this child does, and praise my Maker. my good lord mayor, and your good companions. You have
I thank ye all. To you, my good lord mayor, done me a lot of honor in being here and I will repay you.
And your good brethren, I am much beholding; Lead the way, lords. You must all see the queen and she
80 I have received much honour by your presence, must thank you or she will be sick. Today, no one should
And ye shall find me thankful. Lead the way, lords: think he has to go home. Everyone will stay. It's a holiday
Ye must all see the queen, and she must thank ye, because of this little one.
She will be sick else. This day, no man think
Has business at his house; for all shall stay:
85 This little one shall make it holiday.

Exeunt They exit.

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Act 5, Epilogue
Shakespeare Shakescleare Translation

KING HENRY VIII KING HENRY VIII

'Tis ten to one this play can never please It's almost certain that this play can't please everyone here.
All that are here: some come to take their ease, Some have come to relax and sleep for an act or two. But
And sleep an act or two; but those, we fear, I'm afraid we've frightened those people with our trumpets.
We have frighted with our trumpets; so, 'tis clear, So of course they'll say the play's worthless. Others came to
5 They'll say 'tis naught: others, to hear the city hear the city insulted and to cry out, "That's witty!" and we
Abused extremely, and to cry 'That's witty!' haven't done that either. So I fear the only good we'll hear
Which we have not done neither: that, I fear, about this play for now is from good women who like it
All the expected good we're like to hear because we've showed them a good woman. If they smile
For this play at this time, is only in and say it'll do, I know that all the best men will be on our
10 The merciful construction of good women; side. Because it won't do them any good not to clap when
For such a one we show'd 'em: if they smile, their wives tell them to.
And say 'twill do, I know, within a while
All the best men are ours; for 'tis ill hap,
If they hold when their ladies bid 'em clap.

How to Cite
To cite this Shakescleare translation:

MLA
Doyle, Clio. "Henry VIII: A Shakescleare Translation."
LitCharts. LitCharts LLC, 19 May 2017. Web. 14 Sep 2017.

Chicago Manual
Doyle, Clio. "Henry VIII: A Shakescleare Translation." LitCharts
LLC, May 19, 2017. Retrieved September 14, 2017.
http://www.litcharts.com/lit/henry-viii.

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