The Winter's Tale
The Winter’s Tale is one of Shakespeare’s late plays, half tragedy and half fairy tale. King Leontes is suddenly gripped by jealousy, convinced with no real evidence that his wife Hermione has betrayed him. His rage tears the family apart and seems to kill her. Years later, the daughter he abandoned as a baby is found alive and grown. In the strange final scene, a statue of the dead queen is unveiled, and then it begins to move.
Characters
Famous Quotes
See all quotes →“Exit, pursued by a bear.”
Stage direction — Act 3, Scene 3
“A sad tale's best for winter: I have one Of sprites and goblins.”
Mamillius — Act 2, Scene 1
“A snapper-up of unconsidered trifles.”
Autolycus — Act 4, Scene 3
Further Reading
Best Lines by Shakespeare: Quotes on Life, Love and More
A curated collection of Shakespeare's most famous lines, organised by theme, from love and loss to daily wisdom, sport and celebration. Each quote includes the play it comes from and why it still resonates.
Who Was William Shakespeare? A Complete Life and Biography
The life of Shakespeare: born in Stratford 1564, the Globe, his death in 1616, and the First Folio. The facts, checked.
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