# Scene II explained — King John

> Chapter companion for King John by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Amidst the heat of battle near Angiers, the Bastard presents Austria's head. King John entrusts Arthur to Hubert and reports that Queen Elinor has been attacked but is rescued by the Bastard. They press on to end the conflict.

## Themes in this chapter

### Loyalty and Betrayal

The Bastard's rescue of Queen Elinor demonstrates loyalty to King John, while Austria's decapitation signifies the consequences of opposing John's claim.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Faulconbridge (the Bastard)

Enters with Austria's head, reports rescuing Queen Elinor.

### King John

Enters with Arthur and Hubert, instructs Hubert to guard Arthur, and reports his mother's peril.

### Arthur, Duke of Bretagne

Present with King John and Hubert, placed under Hubert's custody.

### Hubert de Burgh

Enters with King John and Arthur, tasked with keeping the boy.

### Queen Elinor

Mentioned as having been attacked in her tent but rescued by the Bastard.

## Key lines

> Now, by my life, this day grows wondrous hot; Some airy devil hovers in the sky And pours down mischief.

The Bastard remarks on the intense and chaotic battle, as if a supernatural force is causing destruction.

_Sets the tone of the fierce combat._

> My lord, I rescued her; Her highness is in safety, fear you not: But on, my liege; for very little pains Will bring this labour to an happy end.

The Bastard assures King John that Queen Elinor is safe and urges him to continue fighting for a swift victory.

_Highlights the Bastard's loyalty and optimism._

## Links

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