Henry VI, Part III · Chapter
Scene II explained
Warwick, Oxford, Clarence, and Somerset unite in a plot to surprise and capture Edward IV while he is carelessly encamped with a simple guard.
What happens
Warwick, Oxford, Clarence, and Somerset unite in a plot to surprise and capture Edward IV while he is carelessly encamped with a simple guard. Warwick welcomes Clarence and Somerset as allies, promises his daughter to Clarence, and proposes a night raid inspired by the Greek myth of Ulysses and Diomede stealing Rhesus' horses. They all cry 'Henry!' and set off to execute the plan.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal and Allegiance
Clarence's shift from brother to enemy of Edward, and Warwick's orchestration of a covert plot, highlight the fragile nature of loyalty.
Power and Ambition
Warwick's calculated plan to capture Edward demonstrates his relentless pursuit of political control.
Characters to notice
- Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick
Leads the conspiracy to capture Edward IV, welcomes Clarence and Somerset, and proposes a night raid.
- John de Vere, Earl of Oxford
Accompanies Warwick with French soldiers, supporting the plot against Edward.
- George, Duke of Clarence
Arrives with Somerset, reassures Warwick of his loyalty, and is promised Warwick's daughter.
- Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset
Arrives with Clarence to join Warwick's faction against Edward.
Key passages
“Trust me, my lord, all hitherto goes well; The common people by numbers swarm to us.”
Warwick reports that their cause is gaining popular support as many commoners join them.
Warwick expresses confidence in the growing rebellion.
“I hold it cowardice To rest mistrustful where a noble heart Hath pawn’d an open hand in sign of love”
Warwick says it would be cowardly to doubt someone who has openly offered friendship.
Warwick justifies trusting Clarence and Somerset despite potential risks.
“We may surprise and take him at our pleasure?”
We can catch Edward off guard and capture him easily.
Warwick outlines the plan for a night raid on Edward's camp.
“That as Ulysses and stout Diomede With sleight and manhood stole to Rhesus’ tents, And brought from thence the Thracian fatal steeds, So we, well cover’d with the night’s black mantle, At unawares may beat down Edward’s guard And seize himself”
Just as Ulysses and Diomede stealthily stole the horses of Rhesus, we will use the cover of night to overpower Edward's guards and capture him.
Warwick draws a classical parallel to inspire his allies for the surprise attack.