Henry VI, Part III · Chapter
Scene VI explained
Clifford dies from his wounds, lamenting the fall of Lancaster.
What happens
Clifford dies from his wounds, lamenting the fall of Lancaster. Edward and his allies discover his body and taunt him, then plan to march to London for Edward's coronation and for Warwick to seek a marriage alliance with Lady Bona of France.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal and Allegiance
Clifford's loyalty to Henry VI is contrasted with the Yorkists' consolidation of power; the taunting of Clifford's corpse underscores the personal nature of allegiance and revenge.
Kingship and Leadership
Clifford criticizes Henry VI's leniency as a failure of kingship, while Edward IV asserts his authority by planning his coronation and arranging a royal marriage.
Power and Ambition
Edward's promise to create Richard and George dukes, and Warwick's plan to secure a French alliance, highlight the ambition driving the Yorkist rise.
Characters to notice
- Lord Clifford
Dies from wounds received in battle, lamenting the fall of Lancaster and the leniency of King Henry.
- King Edward IV
Leads the Yorkist forces after the battle, orders mercy before discovering Clifford's body, then joins in taunting the dead Clifford and plans his coronation.
- Richard, Duke of Gloucester
Identifies Clifford's groan, insists on vengeance for the murders of Rutland and York, and expresses a desire to torment Clifford even in death.
- Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick
Proposes replacing Clifford's head with York's on the gates, and plans to cross to France to arrange Edward's marriage to Lady Bona.
- George, Duke of Clarence
Joins in taunting Clifford and is promised the Dukedom of Clarence by Edward.
- John Neville, Marquess of Montague
Present among the Yorkist lords after the battle.
Key passages
“Here burns my candle out; ay, here it dies, Which, whiles it lasted, gave King Henry light.”
My life is ending, and while I lived, I supported King Henry.
Clifford uses a candle metaphor to express his role as a loyal supporter of Henry VI.
“Measure for measure must be answered.”
Revenge must be exacted in kind.
Warwick demands that Clifford's head replace York's on the gates, emphasizing retributive justice.
“So shalt thou sinew both these lands together; And, having France thy friend, thou shalt not dread The scatter’d foe that hopes to rise again.”
This marriage will unite England and France, making you secure against any remaining enemies.
Warwick explains the strategic benefit of Edward marrying Lady Bona.