The Marchioness Rejects the King

This flow follows how the Marchioness of Monferrato answers an unwanted royal advance with a calculated meal and a pointed remark.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A King Hears of Her Beauty

A King Hears of Her Beauty Praise becomes desire At court, a gentleman declares that the Marquis of Monferrato and his wife are unmatched in virtue and beauty. The king becomes enamored of the unseen marchioness. A pretext arranged With her husband away, the king chooses a land journey that will let him visit her. He announces his arrival and expects her to receive him.

A Deliberate Welcome

A Deliberate Welcome The lady reads the situation The marchioness understands why the king is coming but receives the news graciously. She consults local gentlemen and prepares an honorable reception. A meaningful menu She personally arranges the meal and orders dishes made only of hens, despite the region’s abundance of game.

The Hen Question

The Hen Question A probing remark After observing the repeated dishes, the king asks whether only hens are born in the country and whether there are no cocks. A measured answer The marchioness replies that women everywhere are alike, however much their clothing or rank differs. The remark answers his desire without directly accusing him.

The King Withdraws

The King Withdraws The hint understood The king grasps the meaning of the meal and the marchioness’s words. He realizes that further pursuit would bring dishonor and would not change her mind. An honorable departure He thanks her for the reception and leaves promptly for Genoa. Her wit prevents an attempted seduction from becoming coercion.

As Philip II Augustus prepares for the crusade

The day before the king’s arrival

At the king’s arrival and dinner

After the banquet