# Scene II explained — Pericles

> Chapter companion for Pericles by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Gower introduces the final act, describing how Pericles has been promised to marry Marina in Mytilene, but must first perform a sacrifice at the temple of Diana in Ephesus as commanded. The scene shifts to Ephesus, where the king and his company arrive.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family and Reunion

The impending marriage of Pericles and Marina symbolizes the restoration of family bonds and the culmination of their journey.

### Fortune and Divine Justice

Pericles' obedience to Diana's command reflects the theme of divine guidance and the fulfillment of destiny.

## Character check-ins

### Gower

Acts as chorus, narrating the conclusion of the story and guiding the audience to Ephesus.

### Pericles

The king who is promised to marry Marina after completing his sacrifice to Diana.

### Marina

Fair Marina, betrothed to Pericles, awaiting the fulfillment of his vow.

### Diana

The goddess whose command requires Pericles to perform a sacrifice before his marriage.

## Key lines

> Now our sands are almost run; More a little, and then dumb.

Our time is nearly up; a little more, and then I will fall silent.

_Gower signals the approaching end of the story._

> That he is promised to be wived To fair Marina; but in no wise Till he had done his sacrifice, As Dian bade

He is betrothed to the beautiful Marina, but cannot marry until he performs the sacrifice that Diana commanded.

_Explains the condition for Pericles and Marina's marriage._

## Links

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