An interchange in Act 2 that I was particularly interested
in was that between Leontes and Antigonus. Antigonus seemed to be quite
disturbed by the King’s accusations towards Hermione. He is even so convinced
of her chastity that he swears his own daughters’ reproductively upon it. The
harshness of this claim seemed to really emphasize both Antigonus and
Hermione’s characters. Antigonus is clearly a man who stands strong in his
conviction and has no qualms about expressing them directly to King Leontes.
Hermione’s reputation as a virtuous and honest woman is also so indisputable
that men are willing to swear upon their children on it. It makes Leontes’
accusations seem even more absurd. In 2.1.139-41, Antigonus states, “For every
inch of woman in the world, ay, every dram of woman’s flesh is false if she
be”.
3.1 may have been dramatized to emphasize the innocence of
Hermione. It also could have demonstrated the reliance that was placed on the
oracle during this time period.
I would have to say that Hermione is the most compelling
during her trial. Her insistence of her innocence is nonwithstanding, but she
also accepts whatever is meant to happen. Throughout this scene she speaks
rationally and assures the King that she loved polixenes no more than a friend
should. She also seems to be unafraid and even welcomes his unfair judgment.
She tells the king that “The bug which you would fright me with, I seek” in
3.2.90. She knows that she is innocent but is willing to face whatever the gods
have in store for her. The next compelling character would have to be Paulina. It
is ironic that the most compelling characters in this scene are both women. You
would usually categorize women during this time as quiet but neither of them
held their tongues when talking to Leontes. Paulina seemed to be chastising the
King for his wrongful decisions that led to the deaths of both his son and
wife.
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