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Henry VI, Part II · Character

Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset

A proud Lancastrian duke whose ambition and rivalry with York make him a standing threat to the protector's peace.

supporting

Also known as Somerset, Edmund Duke of Somerset, The Duke of Somerset, proud Somerset, Lord Somerset, Somerset Cousin of Buckingham

First appearance: henry vi part ii

As a supporting figure in Henry VI, Part II, Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Contends with York for the French regency; ultimately appointed regent by Gloucester's judgment.
In the storyScene IIIOpen this moment free

Somerset belongs to the court faction that Salisbury names alongside Suffolk, the cardinal, and Buckingham as men whose pride must be bridled. His quarrel with York is both personal and territorial, sharpened by the loss of France and the blame that attaches to whoever held command there. He matters because his feud with York gives the dynastic struggle a human face long before the roses are formally plucked.

See Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset in Scene IIIBook page

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Character Web

24 connections

A slice of how Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

KHKing Henry VIJCJack CadeEDEleanor, Duche…HDHumphrey, Duke…LCLord CliffordEBEdmund Beaufort, Duk…

Relationship types

  • Other

Character groups

  • Conspirators and rebels
  • Protagonist
  • Loyalist nobles

+19 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

SetupEscalationClimax
  • Setup
  • Escalation
  • Breaking point
  • Aftermath
  • Closing

York’s aside reveals his barely contained fury and his strategic decision to dissemble, marking the emotional…

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In the story

Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset appears across 5 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Chapter companion notes

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See Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset in henry vi part ii
See Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset in Scene III
Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset in Henry VI, Part II