Henry VI Part 1 Memory and the Past Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line)

Quote #4

TALBOT
They called us, for our fierceness, English dogs;
Now like to whelps we crying run away.
Hark, countrymen, either renew the fight,
Or tear the lions out of England's coat. (1.5.25-28)

Talbot is remembering the past here, perhaps through rose-colored glasses. In Talbot's case, all the remembering is more useful than it is for some of the other English leaders, though, since he uses memory to encourage his men to fight harder.

Quote #5

CHARLES
In memory of her [Joan], when she is dead,
Her ashes, in an urn more precious
Than the rich-jewelled coffer of Darius,
Transported shall be at high festivals
Before the kings and queens of France. (1.6.23-27)

The hope of being remembered as victorious and strong matters in this play, as well as the actual memories that are conjured. Would Joan like to be remembered with the same kind of lofty language the play uses for Henry V? Seems likely. Though you've got to wonder if she's happy about the Dauphin mentioning her death right after one of her victories. Seems a little morbid.

Quote #6

RICHARD
I dare say
This quarrel will drink blood another day. (2.4.134-135)

Another unfortunate case of the aristocracy remembering more than it should. Richard expects that the quarrel between him and Somerset will continue because of their long memories. Unfortunately, this is totally true.