All’s Well That Ends Well · Chapter
Scene V explained
In Florence, the Widow, Diana, and Mariana discuss Bertram's honorable service in war, but warn Diana against his and Parolles' dishonest advances.
What happens
In Florence, the Widow, Diana, and Mariana discuss Bertram's honorable service in war, but warn Diana against his and Parolles' dishonest advances. Helena arrives disguised as a pilgrim, learns of Bertram's presence and his pursuit of Diana, and observes him with Parolles, expressing her continued love and resolve.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Reputation
Mariana and the Widow emphasize the importance of a maid's honor and honesty, warning Diana against Bertram's seductive promises.
Deception and Appearance
Helena's disguise as a pilgrim and the warnings about Bertram and Parolles' false promises highlight the theme of appearance versus reality.
Love and Obsession
Helena's persistent love for Bertram is evident as she seeks him out in Florence, despite his rejection and pursuit of Diana.
Characters to notice
- Helena
Disguised as a pilgrim, she arrives in Florence, inquires about Bertram, and observes him from a distance.
- Diana
Warned by Mariana and the Widow about Bertram and Parolles; she identifies Bertram and Parolles to Helena.
- Widow Capilet
Hosts Helena and warns Diana about Bertram's intentions.
- Mariana
Advises Diana to guard her honor and condemns Parolles as a corrupting influence.
- Bertram
Seen leading the army in Florence; praised for his military service but noted for his dishonorable pursuit of Diana.
- Parolles
Observed with Bertram; Mariana and Diana identify him as a knave who leads Bertram into dishonest behavior.
Key passages
“the honour of a maid is her name; and no legacy is so rich as honesty.”
A maiden's honor is her most valuable possession, and nothing is as precious as her virtue.
Mariana advises Diana to protect her chastity and reputation.
“their promises, enticements, oaths, tokens, and all these engines of lust, are not the things they go under”
Their promises, seductions, vows, and gifts are deceptive tools of lust, not what they appear to be.
Mariana warns Diana that men like Bertram and Parolles use false appearances to seduce women.
“I would he loved his wife: if he were honester He were much goodlier”
I wish he loved his wife; if he were more honest, he would be much more handsome.
Diana expresses that Bertram's attractiveness is diminished by his dishonorable behavior toward his wife.