Pericles · Chapter
Scene IV explained
In Ephesus, Cerimon returns Thaisa's belongings and reveals that she was shipwrecked.
What happens
In Ephesus, Cerimon returns Thaisa's belongings and reveals that she was shipwrecked. Thaisa, believing King Pericles is dead, decides to become a vestal virgin in Diana's temple, and Cerimon offers his niece to attend her.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Climax.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This scene is the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of Thaisa’s despair…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Virtue and Chastity
Thaisa's decision to take a vestal livery underscores her commitment to chastity and devotion after losing her husband.
- Death and Rebirth
Thaisa's survival from the shipwreck and her new life as a vestal virgin symbolize a rebirth after the death of her former identity.
Characters to notice
Key passages
“But since King Pericles, My wedded lord, I ne’er shall see again, A vestal livery will I take me to, And never more have joy.”
Because I will never see my husband Pericles again, I will become a vestal virgin and renounce all joy.
Thaisa expresses her grief and commitment to a life of chastity.
