All’s Well That Ends Well · Chapter
Scene II explained
The King of France discusses the ongoing war between Florence and Siena, noting that Florence will seek aid but he intends to deny it.
What happens
The King of France discusses the ongoing war between Florence and Siena, noting that Florence will seek aid but he intends to deny it. He allows his gentlemen to fight on either side. Bertram arrives at court with Lafeu and Parolles. The King reflects on Bertram's father, praising his virtues and lamenting his own declining health. He asks about the physician who attended Bertram's father and expresses a wish to consult him if he were still alive.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Reputation
The King praises Bertram's father for his honor, humility, and moral integrity, setting a standard for the younger generation.
Youth vs. Wisdom
The King contrasts the wisdom and virtue of Bertram's father with the frivolity of contemporary youth, lamenting the loss of experienced leaders.
Characters to notice
- King of France
The King discusses the Florentine war, denies aid to Florence, and reflects on his own failing health and the virtues of Bertram's father.
- Bertram
Bertram arrives at the King's court with Lafeu and Parolles, and is welcomed by the King who speaks fondly of Bertram's father.
- Lafeu
Lafeu enters with Bertram and Parolles, accompanying the young count to the King's court.
- Parolles
Parolles enters with Bertram and Lafeu, present at the King's court.
- First Lord Dumain
The First Lord confirms the report of the Florentine war and comments on the King's trust in the Austrian cousin's advice.
- Second Lord Dumain
The Second Lord remarks that the war serves as a nursery for gentlemen seeking action.
Key passages
“The Florentines and Senoys are by the ears; Have fought with equal fortune and continue A braving war.”
The Florentines and Sienese are at war, with neither side gaining an advantage, and they keep fighting fiercely.
The King sets the scene of the ongoing conflict in Italy.
“Youth, thou bear'st thy father's face; Frank nature, rather curious than in haste, Hath well composed thee.”
Young man, you look just like your father; nature has shaped you well, with care rather than haste.
The King greets Bertram, noting his resemblance to his late father.
“I would I had that corporal soundness now, As when thy father and myself in friendship First tried our soldiership!”
I wish I had the physical health I had when your father and I first fought together as soldiers.
The King laments his old age and failing health, reminiscing about his youth.
“Let me not live, quoth he, After my flame lacks oil, to be the snuff Of younger spirits...”
He said, 'Let me not live once my energy is spent, only to be a hindrance to the young.'
The King recalls Bertram's father's wish to die before becoming a burden to the next generation.