Monologue

Cranmer Monologue from Henry VIII

From Henry VIII by William Shakespeare

male · defiant · 1:09 min

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My good lords, hitherto in all the progress Both of my life and office, I have laboured, And with no little study, that my teaching And the strong course of my authority Might go one way, and safely; and the end Was ever to do well. Nor is there living— I speak it with a single heart, my lords— A man that more detests, more stirs against, Both in his private conscience and his place, Defacers of a public peace than I do. Pray heaven the King may never find a heart With less allegiance in it! Men that make 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 And freely urge against me.

About this piece

Cranmer stands before the lords, passionately defending his integrity and calling for justice against his accusers, expressing his deep commitment to peace and authority.

40s · determination · justice · power · honor · betrayal

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