Pericles · Chapter
Scene II explained
In Ephesus, Cerimon demonstrates his virtue and skill in medicine by aiding shipwrecked men and reviving Thaisa, who was cast ashore in a chest after being presumed dead during a storm at sea.
What happens
In Ephesus, Cerimon demonstrates his virtue and skill in medicine by aiding shipwrecked men and reviving Thaisa, who was cast ashore in a chest after being presumed dead during a storm at sea. The scene highlights Cerimon's wisdom and the miraculous restoration of life.
Themes in this chapter
Death and Rebirth
Thaisa's apparent death and miraculous revival by Cerimon symbolizes the theme of rebirth and the power of virtue to overcome mortality.
Virtue and Chastity
Cerimon's selfless charity and dedication to healing, contrasting with worldly pursuits, exemplify true virtue.
Characters to notice
- Cerimon
Revives Thaisa and provides charity to shipwrecked men, embodying virtue and medical knowledge.
- Thaisa
Awakens from death-like state after being washed ashore in a chest, asking for Diana and her lord.
- Pericles
Mentioned in the scroll found with Thaisa's coffin, revealing his loss and grief.
- Philemon
Servant to Cerimon, called to assist with the shipwrecked men and medical tasks.
Key passages
“I hold it ever, Virtue and cunning were endowments greater Than nobleness and riches: careless heirs May the two latter darken and expend; But immortality attends the former, Making a man a god.”
Cerimon declares that virtue and skill are more valuable than wealth and noble birth, as they bring lasting honor and a godlike legacy.
Cerimon's philosophy emphasizes the moral and practical superiority of wisdom over material riches.
“Death may usurp on nature many hours, And yet the fire of life kindle again The o'erpress'd spirits.”
Even after prolonged apparent death, the spark of life can be rekindled.
Cerimon expresses hope and medical confidence in reviving Thaisa, referencing a known case of revival.