King John: Act 3, Scene 2

history

The same. Plains near Angiers.

Scene Summary

On the battlefield near Angiers, the fighting goes badly for France. The Bastard kills Austria, the duke who had championed Arthur's cause and was wearing the lion-skin that belonged to Richard I. John captures Arthur himself. This brief scene is the turning point in the military contest — England wins the battle, Arthur is taken prisoner, and the Bastard avenges his father's death.

Alarums, excursions. Enter the BASTARD, with AUSTRIA'S head

BASTARD

Now, by my life, this day grows wondrous hot;

Some airy devil hovers in the sky

And pours down mischief. Austria's head lie there,

While Philip breathes.

Enter KING JOHN, ARTHUR, and HUBERT

KING JOHN

Hubert, keep this boy. Philip, make up:

My mother is assailed in our tent,

And ta'en, I fear.

BASTARD

My lord, I rescued her;

Her highness is in safety, fear you not:

But on, my liege; for very little pains

Will bring this labour to an happy end.

Exeunt