RICHARD II
ACTOR. THEATRE. STAGE. ENTERS.
As in a theatre the eyes of men,
After a well grac’d actor leaves the stage,
Are idly bent on him that enters next,
Thinking his prattle to be tedious.
V, 2, 24.
This passage is an excellent example of the use Shakespeare made of theatrical metaphors in giving life and reality to his dialogue. The well graced actor can only refer to Richard Burbage, the creator of Shakespeare’s most important characters. He was a fellow member of the same company of actors as Shakespeare, both belonging to the Lord Chamberlain’s company.
SCENE.
Al owing him a breath, a little scene to monarchise.
III, 2, 164.
Our scene is altered from a serious thing.
V, 3, 79.