Monologue

Norfolk Monologue from Henry VIII

From Henry VIII by William Shakespeare

male · dramatic · 1:15 min

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Like it your Grace, The state takes notice of the private difference Betwixt you and the Cardinal. I advise you— And take it from a heart that wishes towards you Honour and plenteous safety—that you read The Cardinal’s malice and his potency Together; to consider further that What his high hatred would effect wants not A minister in his power. You know his nature, That he’s revengeful, and I know his sword 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 That I advise your shunning. Enter Cardinal Wolsey, the purse borne before him, certain of the Guard and two Secretaries with papers. The Cardinal in his passage fixeth his eye on Buckingham, and Buckingham on him, both full of disdain.

About this piece

Norfolk warns Buckingham about the Cardinal's dangerous nature and his potential for revenge, highlighting the tension between the characters as they prepare to confront each other.

40s · fear · power · betrayal · honor · revenge

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