Monologue

Wolsey Monologue from Henry VIII

From Henry VIII by William Shakespeare

male · defiant · 1:20 min

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And for me, I have no further gone in this than by A single voice, and that not passed me but By learned approbation of the judges. If I am Traduced by ignorant tongues, which neither know My faculties nor person, yet will be The chronicles of my doing, let me say ’Tis but the fate of place, and the rough brake That virtue must go through. We must not stint Our necessary actions in the fear To cope malicious censurers, which ever, As ravenous fishes, do a vessel follow That is new-trimmed, but benefit no further Than vainly longing. What we oft do best, By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is Not ours or not allowed; what worst, as oft, Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up For our best act. If we shall stand still In fear our motion will be mocked or carped at, We should take root here where we sit, Or sit state-statues only.

About this piece

Wolsey reflects on the challenges of maintaining his position and reputation amidst criticism and misunderstanding, asserting the necessity of action despite the fear of judgment.

40s · determination · power · fate · reputation · ambition

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