Monologue

Shakespear Monologue from The Dark Lady of the Sonnets

From The Dark Lady of the Sonnets by Bernard Shaw

male · defiant · 1:33 min

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Learn to know yourself better, madam. I am an honest gentleman of unquestioned parentage, and have already sent in my demand for the coat-of-arms that is lawfully mine. Can you say as much for yourself? (ELIZABETH: Another word; and I begin with mine own hands the work the hangman shall finish.) You are no true Tudor: this baggage here has as good a right to your royal seat as you. What maintains you on the throne of England? Is it your renowned wit? your wisdom that sets at naught the craftiest statesmen of the Christian world? No. Tis the mere chance that might have happened to any milkmaid, the caprice of Nature that made you the most wondrous piece of beauty the age hath seen. (Elizabeth's raised fists, on the point of striking him, fall to her side). That is what hath brought all men to your feet, and founded your throne on the impregnable rock of your proud heart, a stony island in a sea of desire. There, madam, is some wholesome blunt honest speaking for you. Now do your worst.

About this piece

30s · anger · power · identity · honor · defiance

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