How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Act.Scene.Line). Line numbers correspond to the Norton edition.
Quote #1
Too hot, too hot!
To mingle friendship far is mingling bloods.
I have tremor cordis on me: my heart dances;
But not for joy; not joy. (1.2.11)
As Leontes watches his faithful wife banter with his best friend, he suspects Hermione is having an affair with Polixenes. Because Leontes's sudden and unfounded jealousy leads to his tyrannous behavior, we could argue that Leontes's jealousy is responsible for all of the suffering that occurs in the play.
Quote #2
How will this grieve you,
When you shall come to clearer knowledge, that
You thus have publish'd me! Gentle my lord,
You scarce can right me thoroughly then to say
You did mistake. (2.1.11)
After Leontes accuses his wife of infidelity, Hermione predicts the grief that Leontes will suffer when he eventually realizes his mistake. By then, she suggests, it will be too late to make things right with his wife.
Quote #3
PAULINA
How fares our gracious lady?
EMILIA
As well as one so great and so forlorn
May hold together: on her frights and griefs,
Which never tender lady hath born greater,
She is something before her time deliver'd.
PAULINA
A boy?
EMILIA
A daughter, and a goodly babe,
Lusty and like to live: the queen receives
Much comfort in't; says 'My poor prisoner,
I am innocent as you.' (2.2.5)
Emilia reveals that Hermione has given birth, prematurely, while in jail. Although Hermione suffers in prison, she is tender toward her newborn and finds “comfort” in her daughter.