The Winter's Tale, Act 2, Scene 2 summary
Act 2, Scene 2 of 15 · 3 min to read the scene
In Act 2, Scene 2, Paulina visits the prison, learns from Emilia that the queen has a newborn daughter, and offers to bring the child before the king. Her plan turns concern for the imprisoned queen into direct action, while her promise of protection addresses the jailer's fear of punishment.
What happens
- Paulina asks to visit the queen, but the jailer refuses because his orders forbid it.
- After dismissing her attendants, Paulina receives permission to speak with Emilia under the jailer's supervision.
- Emilia reports that distress brings on the queen's early delivery of a healthy daughter.
- Paulina offers to present the baby to the king, hoping the child's innocence can persuade him.
- Emilia agrees to consult the queen, who already considers the same plan but fears rejection.
- Paulina argues that the baby is free and promises to protect the jailer from punishment.
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In this scene
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Why does the jailer hesitate to let the baby leave?
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