Polixenes 5. Flashcards
Quote
“We were twinn’d lambs”
“was innocence for innocence we knew not the doctrine of I’ll-doing”
Overview
Act 1 scene 2
This scene depicts Hermione convincing polixenes to stay in which causes Leontes jealousy as he agrees while reminiscing in their childhood together
Analysis
He is reminiscing on his childhood days with Leontes stating how they only had innocence
Dramatic method
This quote sets the tone for the extent of leotnes betrayal as it shows their close bonds creating it to be seen as more of a tragedy as the audience is aware of the deep connection they once had possibly alluding to why Leontes felt such hurt by this scandal.
Theme
Deals with the theme of childhood and innocence
Context
Within the renaissance period of 1500-1660 being born Out of (supposed) wedlock led to many restrictions on children such as discrimination, prejudice and could result in being put to death.
Perdita was seen to come from a lower class family (irony as she was princess) resulting in rejection for her inter-class relationship that would’ve brought shame and rejection onto the family.
This relates to Kings being seen as omnipotent as their title has been given by god himself he sees this betrayal of his son as going against god as he goes against him.
Link
This creates a contrast for what occurs later in this scene and play as Leontes completely disowns him as a friend in which they both commit complete acts of violence opposite of their Childhood innocence. Could be the start of polixenes villain era.
