# Scene II explained — Pericles

> Chapter companion for Pericles by William Shakespeare.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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