Shakespeare's Henry VI "House of York" (part 16 of 16)

[GreatGrumbledook]

Well, I hate the modern costumes [though they seem at least military and stately, so it is better than most I am used to] and the mingling with the verses was awful; but the performances were good, though I wished that they had chosen a more attractive Richard of Gloucester (like Ron Cook or Ian McKellen)! And the duke of York was a full catastrophe! In the plays he is warlike, regal and cunning; but can this barrel with a beard utter such words:

[GreatGrumbledook]

YORK How now! is Somerset at liberty? Then, York, unloose thy long-imprison'd thoughts, And let thy tongue be equal with thy heart. Shall I endure the sight of Somerset? False king! why hast thou broken faith with me, Knowing how hardly I can brook abuse? King did I call thee? no, thou art not king, Not fit to govern and rule multitudes, Which darest not, no, nor canst not rule a traitor.

[GreatGrumbledook]

That head of thine doth not become a crown; Thy hand is made to grasp a palmer's staff, And not to grace an awful princely sceptre. That gold must round engirt these brows of mine, Whose smile and frown, like to Achilles' spear, Is able with the change to kill and cure. Here is a hand to hold a sceptre up And with the same to act controlling laws. Give place: by heaven, thou shalt rule no more O'er him whom heaven created for thy ruler.

[agreatguy6]

Absolutely stunning :) thanks so much for posting ^^