LEWIS THE DAUPHIN: Your grace shall pardon me, I will not back.
I am too high-born to be propertied,
To be a secondary at control,
Or useful serving-man and instrument
To any sovereign state throughout the world.
Act V, Scene 2 — Lewis the Dauphin's Defiance — King John
Lewis the Dauphin furiously refuses to halt his invasion of England after Cardinal Pandulph announces a peace treaty between King John and the Pope. He argues that having been incited to war by the Church, he will not now be used as a mere instrument or puppet of Rome.
Format: Monologue · Genre: Drama · Source: King John · Author: William Shakespeare · Characters: Lewis the Dauphin
About This Scene
This powerful classical monologue comes from William Shakespeare's historical play, King John, specifically Act V, Scene 2. Here, we witness Lewis the Dauphin, the French prince, in a state of furious defiance as he rejects Cardinal Pandulph's command to withdraw his invading forces from England. The scene vividly captures Lewis's outrage and his unwavering determination to press his claim to the English throne, despite the newly brokered peace between King John and the Papacy.
Character Analysis
Lewis the Dauphin is portrayed as proud, ambitious, and acutely aware of his royal standing. He feels betrayed by the Church, which initially spurred his invasion, and now sees himself as an instrument being cast aside once its purpose is served. He views himself as a rightful claimant to the English throne, especially after the death of young Arthur, and he has invested significant resources and personal honor into this war. Lewis is not merely a pawn; he sees himself as a sovereign entity who will not be dictated to, and his words convey a fierce sense of entitlement and unyielding resolve.
Why This Works for Auditions
This monologue is an excellent choice for auditions due to its clear dramatic arc and high stakes. It allows an actor to showcase a range of powerful emotions, from initial shock and disbelief to righteous anger and absolute defiance. The classical language, while demanding, offers a superb opportunity to demonstrate vocal control, articulation, and the ability to convey complex thoughts and motivations through heightened text, all within a concise two-minute timeframe.
Best Suited For
This piece is particularly well-suited for male actors in the 18-25 age range who are aiming for drama school auditions, general practice, or competitions. It is ideal for those who can authentically portray a "Leading Man" or "Rebel" archetype, demonstrating intensity and an upper-class demeanor. Actors who excel at embodying characters with strong political conviction and a history of betrayal will find this monologue a compelling and effective choice.
Performance Tips
When approaching this monologue, focus on Lewis’s internal justification for his anger and his unwavering belief in his own right. Pay close attention to Shakespeare's rhetorical questions, using them to build momentum and convey his frustration, rather than posing them casually. Consider how Lewis's physical presence might reflect his "high-born" status and his determination, even as his words convey a seething fury. Ensure your vocal delivery highlights the contrast between the initial incitement to war and the current demand for withdrawal, emphasizing his deep sense of betrayal.