How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line)
Quote #4
EDWARD
I think it cites us, brother, to the field,
That we, the sons of brave Plantagenet,
Each one already blazing by our meeds,
Should notwithstanding join our lights together
And overshine the earth, as this the world. (2.1.34-38)
Seeing three suns in the sky during a battle in a Shakespeare play is definitely a sign, but of what? Interestingly, Edward interprets this in his family's favor: the three suns represent the three brothers. He's convinced the three brothers are united and can't be separated—just like the suns. As it turns out, by the end of the play, both of his remaining brothers have decided to cross him. For more on this symbol, check out our "Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory" section.
Quote #5
CLIFFORD
And long hereafter say unto his child
"What my great-grandfather and grandsire got,
My careless father fondly gave away"? (2.2.36-38)
Here, Clifford is shaming Henry into action by saying that Henry's son and grandchildren will always look down on him for taking their throne away from them. He asks Henry if he wants his son to think of him in a cowardly way, as someone who lost the crown. It's a dirty tactic, but it goes to show how much fathers care about their sons in this play.
Quote #6
KING HENRY
...didst thou never hear
That things ill got had ever bad success?
And happy always was it for that son
Whose father for his hoarding went to hell? (2.2.45-48)
Henry doesn't care as much about the crown as he cares about his own conscience. He tells Clifford he doesn't even want to have the crown if it means giving up on what he thinks is right. We've already heard Henry question his right to the throne at this point—a big no-no in Shakespeare's day— and now he's telling Clifford it might not be worth it if he ends up in hell for holding on to something that's not his. Is that a good reason to give up the crown, or is Henry just looking for an excuse?