The Noblewoman Paulina: A Key Character in The Winter's Tale

TLDRIn Act 2 Scene 2 of The Winter's Tale, Paulina, a noblewoman, requests to see Hermione in jail but is refused. She is allowed to speak with Emilia, who reveals that Hermione has given birth prematurely. Paulina wants to take the baby to Leontes to soften his heart. This scene introduces Paulina as a strong advocate for Hermione and sets up her crucial role in the play.

Key insights

💪Paulina, like her husband Antigonus, is firmly on the side of Hermione, believing in her innocence and virtue.

🗣️Paulina is outspoken and does not hesitate to oppose Leontes when she believes he is acting or speaking wrongly.

🔍Paulina is highly respected and recognized for her gifts of persuasion and influence.

🤝Paulina's conversation with Emilia reveals her determination to protect and support the jailer.

🌟Paulina's characterization foreshadows her powerful and potentially decisive role in countering Leontes' dangerous irrationality.

Q&A

What is Paulina's role in The Winter's Tale?

—Paulina is a noblewoman who strongly supports Hermione and opposes Leontes. She plays a crucial role in advocating for Hermione and challenging Leontes' actions.

Why is Paulina allowed to speak with Emilia but not Hermione?

—The jailer has explicit orders not to allow anyone to see Hermione. However, he permits Paulina to talk to Emilia, one of the Queen's ladies in waiting.

What does Paulina hope to achieve by taking the baby to Leontes?

—Paulina believes that the sight of the baby will soften Leontes' heart and make him reconsider his actions and accusations against Hermione.

Why is Paulina highly respected?

—Paulina is highly respected for her integrity, outstanding good sense, and her willingness to speak out against injustice.

What does Paulina's characterization foreshadow?

—Paulina's characterization foreshadows her important role in countering Leontes' dangerous irrationality and potentially playing a decisive role in the resolution of the play.

Timestamped Summary

00:09In Act 2 Scene 2, Paulina requests to see Hermione in jail but is refused.

00:17The jailer allows Paulina to speak with Emilia, who reveals that Hermione has given birth prematurely.

00:28Paulina wants to take the baby to Leontes in the hope of softening his heart.

00:37Emilia promises to inform the Queen, and Paulina reassures the jailer of her protection.

01:24Paulina's characterization suggests she will provide a powerful counterbalance to Leontes' irrationality.

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