The Winter's Tale, Act 4, Scene 4 summary
Act 4, Scene 4 of 15 · 32 min to read the scene
In Act 4, Scene 4, Polixenes interrupts Florizel and Perdita’s engagement at the sheep-shearing feast and threatens them over their unequal rank. Camillo directs their escape toward Sicilia for his own purposes, while Autolycus profits from disguises and steers the Shepherd and Clown, carrying evidence about Perdita’s origins, toward the prince’s ship.
What happens
- Perdita fears the king’s opposition, but Florizel promises loyalty as they welcome guests to the sheep-shearing feast.
- Disguised Polixenes discusses flowers with Perdita, while dancing, songs, and Autolycus’s sales entertain the company.
- When Florizel refuses to consult his father about marriage, Polixenes reveals himself, forbids the match, and threatens punishment.
- Florizel remains faithful, and Camillo proposes escape to Sicilia while privately planning to bring Polixenes after the lovers.
- Florizel exchanges clothes with Autolycus, and Perdita disguises herself before leaving with Florizel and Camillo toward the shore.
- The Shepherd and Clown carry evidence that Perdita is not their relative; Autolycus takes payment and plans to bring them aboard.
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In this scene
What to notice
Florizel treats his bond with Perdita as more valuable than royal succession. His refusal to surrender her drives the escape plan.
Quick check
Why do the Shepherd and Clown want to show the king their hidden objects?
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