Scene VII explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Love as a Transformative Force

  Julia's love for Proteus drives her to undertake a perilous journey and adopt a male disguise, showing love's power to transform identity and action.

• Disguise and Deception

  Julia plans to disguise herself as a page to travel safely, highlighting the theme of deception for love's sake.

• Gender Roles and Disguise

  Julia's decision to cut her hair and wear men's clothing challenges contemporary gender norms, emphasizing the fluidity of gender roles in pursuit of love.

Characters to notice

• Julia

  Determined to follow Proteus to Milan, she plans to disguise as a page and dismisses Lucetta's cautions about Proteus's faithfulness.

• Lucetta

  Advises Julia against the journey and warns of Proteus's potential deceit, but ultimately helps her prepare for the disguise.

Key passages

• “A true-devoted pilgrim is not weary To measure kingdoms with his feeble steps; Much less shall she that hath Love's wings to fly”

  A devoted pilgrim never tires of traveling great distances, and a woman in love has even more motivation to journey.

  Julia argues that love gives her the strength to undertake the long journey to Proteus.

• “Not like a woman; for I would prevent The loose encounters of lascivious men”

  I will not dress as a woman, to avoid unwanted advances from men.

  Julia explains her decision to disguise as a page for safety.

• “His words are bonds, his oaths are oracles, His love sincere, his thoughts immaculate”

  Proteus's promises are as reliable as legal contracts, his vows as true as prophecies, and his love is pure and honest.

  Julia defends Proteus's character against Lucetta's doubts.