Pericles · Chapters

Chapters explained

Chapter companions for Pericles by William Shakespeare.

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Chapter 1
Act I
Pericles — Stage Lens: dramatic beats, line helps that follow your scroll, and stage picture. Read to understand, not to collect a closed thesis.
Chapter 2
Scene I
Pericles arrives at Antioch to win the princess by solving a riddle, but discovers the incestuous relationship between Antiochus and his daughter. He refuses to expose the truth openly, and Antiochus, realizing Pericles knows the secret, plots to have him killed. Pericles flees to save his life.
Chapter 3
Scene II
Pericles, troubled by melancholy and fear of Antiochus, confides in his loyal counselor Helicanus. He reveals the incestuous secret he discovered in Antioch and his dread of the tyrant's retaliation. Helicanus advises him to travel for safety, and Pericles decides to leave Tyre in Helicanus's hands while he journeys to Tarsus.
Chapter 4
Scene III
Thaliard arrives in Tyre with orders to kill King Pericles, but discovers that Pericles has already departed on unknown travels. Helicanus explains to the lords of Tyre that Pericles left due to displeasure from Antiochus. Thaliard decides to return to Antioch, and Helicanus invites him to feast before his departure.
Chapter 5
Scene IV: The Relief of Tarsus
Cleon and Dionyza lament the famine that has devastated Tarsus, once a prosperous city. Pericles arrives with ships carrying corn to relieve their hunger, offering aid rather than conquest. Cleon welcomes him, and Pericles accepts their hospitality.