Scene IV explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Betrayal and Allegiance

  Queen Elizabeth warns against trusting those who have once broken faith, referencing Warwick's betrayal and the Bishop of York's allegiance to Warwick.

• Family and Dynasty

  Queen Elizabeth's primary concern is protecting her unborn child, the true heir to the English crown, highlighting the dynastic stakes of the conflict.

• Gender and Queenship

  Queen Elizabeth's role as a queen and mother is central; she must bridle her emotions to safeguard her child, demonstrating the political and personal burdens of queenship.

Characters to notice

• Lady Elizabeth Grey

  Now Queen Elizabeth, she receives news of King Edward's capture and decides to flee to sanctuary to protect her unborn child.

• Anthony Woodville, Earl Rivers

  Queen Elizabeth's brother, who learns of Edward's capture and discusses the dire situation with her.

Key passages

• “Why brother Rivers, are you yet to learn What late misfortune is befall’n King Edward?”

  Haven't you heard, brother Rivers, about the recent disaster that has struck King Edward?

  Queen Elizabeth reveals the news of Edward's capture to Rivers.

• “Ay, almost slain, for he is taken prisoner, Either betray’d by falsehood of his guard Or by his foe surprised at unawares”

  Yes, nearly killed—he has been captured, either betrayed by his own guards or taken by surprise by his enemy.

  Queen Elizabeth explains that Edward is a prisoner, not dead.

• “I am inform’d that he comes towards London, To set the crown once more on Henry’s head”

  I have heard that Warwick is marching to London to restore Henry to the throne.

  Queen Elizabeth reports Warwick's plan to reinstate Henry VI.

• “I’ll hence forthwith unto the sanctuary, To save at least the heir of Edward’s right”

  I will go immediately to the sanctuary to protect Edward's heir and rightful claim.

  Queen Elizabeth decides to flee to sanctuary for the safety of her unborn child.