The Winter's Tale, Act 1, Scene 2 summary
Act 1, Scene 2 of 15 · 18 min to read the scene
In Act 1, Scene 2, Hermione persuades Polixenes to extend his visit, and Leontes interprets their friendliness as evidence of adultery, ordering Camillo to poison his guest. Camillo rejects the murder, tells Polixenes about the accusation and danger, and agrees to help him escape, turning royal friendship into a deadly breach.
What happens
- Polixenes insists on returning home, but Hermione persuades him to remain after Leontes fails to do so.
- Hermione gives Polixenes her hand, and Leontes becomes jealous, studying Mamillius for signs of their resemblance.
- Leontes accuses Hermione of adultery with Polixenes, while Camillo defends her and challenges his belief.
- Leontes orders Camillo to poison Polixenes, and Camillo pretends to agree on condition that Leontes accepts Hermione again.
- Alone, Camillo rejects murder; when Polixenes questions him, he reveals the accusation and assassination order.
- Polixenes accepts Camillo's escape plan and promises him protection and status; they leave together.
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In this scene
What to notice
Camillo identifies Leontes's suspicion as a dangerous belief rather than established fact. Leontes rejects this warning and proceeds toward murder.
Quick check
What does Camillo do after agreeing to poison Polixenes?
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