Monologue

Eleanor Monologue from Henry VI

From Henry VI by William Shakespeare

female · defiant · 1:07 min

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Why droops my lord, like over-ripened corn Hanging the head at Ceres’ plenteous load? Why doth the great Duke Humphrey knit his brows, As frowning at the favours of the world? Why are thine eyes fixed to the sullen earth, Gazing on that which seems to dim thy sight? What seest thou there? King Henry’s diadem, Enchased with all the honours of the world? If so, gaze on, and grovel on thy face, Until thy head be circled with the same. Put forth thy hand, reach at the glorious gold. What, is’t too short? I’ll lengthen it with mine; And, having both together heaved it up, We’ll both together lift our heads to heaven, And never more abase our sight so low As to vouchsafe one glance unto the ground.

About this piece

Eleanor confronts Duke Humphrey about his despondency, urging him to aspire for greatness and reclaim his dignity amidst despair.

40s · determination · power · ambition · identity · despair

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