# Scene V explained — Cymbeline

> Chapter companion for Cymbeline by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

The Queen procures poisonous drugs from Cornelius, who suspects her malice and substitutes a sleeping potion. She manipulates Pisanio, giving him the box and promising rewards if he helps her son Cloten win Imogen, but Pisanio remains loyal to Posthumus.

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

The Queen feigns scientific curiosity to obtain poisons, while Cornelius outwardly complies but secretly thwarts her plan with a false drug.

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Pisanio is tempted by the Queen's bribes but inwardly vows loyalty to Posthumus, contrasting the Queen's manipulative disloyalty.

## Character check-ins

### Queen

Obtains what she believes are poisons from Cornelius and attempts to bribe Pisanio into betraying Posthumus.

### Cornelius

Provides the Queen with a harmless sleeping potion instead of poison, suspecting her malicious intent.

### Pisanio

Receives the Queen's box and promises of reward, but inwardly resolves to remain true to Posthumus.

## Key lines

> I do suspect you, madam; But you shall do no harm.

Cornelius suspects the Queen's intentions and ensures his drugs will not cause real harm.

_Cornelius's aside reveals his cautious integrity._

> But when to my good lord I prove untrue, I'll choke myself: there's all I'll do for you.

Pisanio declares he would rather die than betray Posthumus.

_Pisanio's private vow underscores his steadfast loyalty._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cymbeline_se/chapters/act-i-scene-v
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cymbeline_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cymbeline_se/chapters