Monologue

Autolycus Monologue from The Winter's Tale

From The Winter's Tale by William Shakespeare

male · comedic · 1:21 min

Rehearse this freeFind more monologues
I understand the business, I hear it. To have an open ear, a quick eye, and a nimble hand, is necessary for a cut-purse; a good nose is requisite also, to smell out work for the other senses. I see this is the time that the unjust man doth thrive. What an exchange had this been without boot! What a boot is here with this exchange! Sure the gods do this year connive at us, and we may do anything extempore. The prince himself is about a piece of iniquity, stealing away from his father with his clog at his heels: if I thought it were a piece of honesty to acquaint the king withal, I would not do’t: I hold it the more knavery to conceal it; and therein am I constant to my profession. Aside, aside; here is more matter for a hot brain: every lane’s end, every shop, church, session, hanging, yields a careful man work.

About this piece

Autolycus, a clever rogue, reflects on the opportunities for thievery and deception in the current chaotic environment, revealing his cunning nature and the moral ambiguity of his actions.

20s · anticipation · deception · identity · power · survival

Rehearse Autolycus's monologue

Run it out loud with a spotlight that follows your voice, line by line, until it's off the page. Free to start, no credit card.

Rehearse freeStart rehearsing

More from The Winter's Tale

Browse