# Scene II explained — Pericles

> Chapter companion for Pericles by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

In a brothel in Mytilene, the Pandar, Bawd, and Boult discuss their need for fresh prostitutes after poor business. Boult returns with Marina, who has been captured by pirates. Despite the Bawd's attempts to coerce her into the trade, Marina resolutely declares her intention to preserve her virginity, calling upon the goddess Diana for aid.

## Themes in this chapter

### Virtue and Chastity

Marina's steadfast refusal to submit to the brothel's demands highlights the theme of chastity and moral integrity.

### Appearance vs. Reality

The Bawd advises Marina to feign reluctance and fear to attract customers, underscoring the disparity between outward appearance and inner truth.

## Character check-ins

### Marina

Captured by pirates and sold to the brothel, Marina defiantly vows to keep her virginity, invoking Diana's protection.

### Bawd

The brothel's madam, who instructs Marina on how to behave and tries to persuade her to accept her new life.

### Boult

The brothel's servant, who procures Marina and advertises her beauty to attract customers.

### Pandar

The brothel's manager, who discusses the need for fresh prostitutes and the financial aspects of the trade.

## Key lines

> If fires be hot, knives sharp, or waters deep, Untied I still my virgin knot will keep. Diana, aid my purpose!

No matter what threats or dangers I face, I will remain a virgin. Goddess Diana, help me in my resolve.

_Marina's vow to preserve her chastity, calling on the goddess Diana for divine assistance._

> You must seem to do that fearfully which you commit willingly, despise profit where you have most gain.

You should act as if you are reluctant to do what you actually do willingly, and pretend to scorn the money you earn.

_The Bawd instructs Marina on how to manipulate customers by feigning reluctance._

## Links

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