# Scene II explained — Edward III

> Chapter companion for Edward III by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

French civilians flee in panic as news spreads of the English army's arrival and the destruction of the French navy. A prophecy foretelling France's fall and the sight of burning cities heighten the terror, while a debate arises between those who advocate flight and those who urge resistance.

## Themes in this chapter

### Legitimacy and Hereditary Right

The Third Frenchman argues that Edward's claim through his mother (sister of the late king) is more rightful than John Valois's, who is 'three degrees remov'd'.

### War and Nationalism

The scene depicts the terror of war as French citizens flee, and the English invasion is framed as a national crisis for France.

## Character check-ins

### King Edward III

Mentioned as the English king advancing with his army, fulfilling the prophecy of the lion from the west.

### Prince Edward

Referenced as the 'hot unbridled son' marching on the left flank of the English forces.

### King John of France

Implied as the usurper John Valois, whose claim to the throne is contrasted with Edward's hereditary right.

## Key lines

> Quarter-day? aye, and quartering day, I fear

Is it moving day? Yes, and a day of being cut to pieces, I fear.

_Puns on 'quarter-day' (rent due) and 'quartering' (dismemberment by soldiers)._

> Edward is son unto our late king's sister, When John Valois is three degrees remov'd.

Edward is the son of our late king's sister, while John Valois is three steps removed from the royal line.

_Argues for Edward's stronger hereditary claim to the French throne._

> The time will shortly come, When as a lion, roused in the west, Shall carry hence the flower-de-luce of France

Soon a lion from the west will take away the fleur-de-lis, the symbol of France.

_Prophecy foretelling Edward III's conquest of France._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/edward_iii_se/chapters/act-iii-scene-ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/edward_iii_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/edward_iii_se/chapters