Edward III · Chapter
Scene II explained
The Countess of Salisbury, besieged by the Scots, anxiously awaits aid from King Edward.
What happens
The Countess of Salisbury, besieged by the Scots, anxiously awaits aid from King Edward. King David of Scotland and his forces arrive, boasting of their plans to ravage England, but a messenger reports the approach of the English army, forcing the Scots to flee in panic. The Countess mocks their retreat. Sir William Mountague arrives and announces the king's presence. King Edward enters, is struck by the Countess's beauty, and despite initial hesitation, agrees to stay at her castle.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Chivalry
The Countess's defiance of the Scots and her duty to her husband and king exemplify chivalric ideals of loyalty and courage.
Lust vs. Virtue
King Edward's immediate attraction to the Countess and his internal conflict between desire and duty introduce the theme of lust versus virtue.
Characters to notice
- Countess of Salisbury
Defends her castle against the Scots, mocks their retreat, and welcomes King Edward, persuading him to stay.
- King David of Scotland
Leads the siege, boasts of his plans, but flees upon hearing of the English army's approach.
- Douglas
Accompanies King David, craves the Countess as spoil, and advises retreat.
- Duke of Lorraine
Sent as an ambassador to King David, delivers messages to the King of France.
- Sir William Mountague
Arrives to announce the king's approach and greets the Countess.
- King Edward III
Arrives at Roxborough, is captivated by the Countess's beauty, and agrees to stay.
Key passages
“Alas, how much in vain my poor eyes gaze For succour that my sovereign should send!”
The Countess laments that her eyes search in vain for the help the king should send.
Expresses her desperation and reliance on King Edward.
“She heard the messenger and heard our talk; And now that comfort makes her scorn at us.”
King David realizes the Countess overheard their conversation and is now mocking them.
Highlights the Countess's cleverness and the Scots' humiliation.
“What strange enchantment lurk'd in those her eyes When they excell'd this excellence they have, That now their dim decline hath power to draw My subject eyes from persing majesty To gaze on her with doting admiration?”
King Edward wonders what magic remains in her eyes, even diminished, that draws his gaze from royal matters to admiring her.
Reveals Edward's immediate infatuation and internal struggle.