Monologue

King Monologue from Henry VIII

From Henry VIII by William Shakespeare

male · defiant · 55 sec

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You were ever good at sudden commendations, Bishop of Winchester. But know I come not To hear such flattery now, and in my presence They are too thin and bare to hide offences. To me you cannot reach, you play the spaniel, And think with wagging of your tongue to win me; But whatsoe’er thou tak’st me for, I’m sure Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody. (To Cranmer.) Good man, sit down. Now let me see the proudest He, that dares most, but wag his finger at thee. By all that’s holy, he had better starve Than but once think this place becomes thee not.

About this piece

King Henry VIII confronts the Bishop of Winchester, expressing his disdain for flattery and revealing his anger towards perceived betrayal and cruelty.

40s · anger · power · betrayal · honor · authority

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