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Polixenes cannot bear to hear Sicilia mentioned as it reminds him of the past’s tragic events.Their conversation turns to Prince Florizel, who has recently been neglecting his “princely exercises.” They have heard that he spends his time at the home of a Shepherd “who hath a daughter of most rare note.” Polixenes observes that she must be the “angle” (hook) that “plucks” Florizel to the cottage. He decides that they will go in disguise to question the Shepherd.
ACT 4 SCENE 3
    Autolycus’ song of the spring contrasts with the sad “winter’s tale” told by Mamillius in Act 2 Scene 1. It reinforces the rural setting of Bohemia, as well as the theme of regeneration. The sexual innuendo generates comedy and illustrates Autolycus’ robust character. Autolycus tells us that he used to be in service of Florizel, but that he now makes his living as a petty thief and con man. He sees the Clown approaching and decides to set a “springe” (trap) for him. The Clown is distracted, trying to remember what he has been sent to buy for the “sheep-shearing feast.” Autolycus lies on the ground, groaning and asking for help. He tells the Clown that he has been robbed and that his attackers left him in the “detestable” rags that he is wearing. Concerned, the Clown helps Autolycus up and, as he does so, Autolycus picks his pocket. Ironically, the Clown offers Autolycus money, which he refuses. The Clown asks who attacked him, and with further comic irony, Autolycus describes himself. After the Clown has left, he vows to attend the sheep-shearing and leaves, singing once more.
ACT 4 SCENE 4
    Lines 1–62: Florizel, dressed as a shepherd and calling himself “Doricles,” compliments Perdita on her costume for the festival. She comments on their reversed roles, raising the issue of status: he has “obscured” his status with “a swain’s wearing,” and she, a “lowly maid” is “Most goddess-like pranked up,” creating dramatic irony as we are aware of her true status. This change in costume establishes the use of disguises throughout the scene, generating comedy and reinforcing the motif of false appearance. Florizel reassures Perditathat his intentions toward her are honorable: his “lusts” do not “Burn hotter” than his “faith.” They are interrupted by the arrival of the guests, including Polixenes and Camillo in disguise.
    Lines 63–240: Urged by the Shepherd, Perdita welcomes the guests to the sheep-shearing. She distributes flowers to everyone, including the “winter” flowers of “rosemary and rue” to Polixenes and Camillo. She discusses cross-pollinating flowers and the marrying of “A gentler scion to the wildest stock” with Polixenes, reflecting the apparent circumstances in her relationship with Florizel. Perdita and Florizel move aside. Polixenes comments on Perdita’s beauty to Camillo and observes that she seems to be “Too noble for this place.” The Clown, Mopsa, and Dorcas begin the dance and, as they watch, Polixenes questions the Shepherd about the “fair swain” who is courting his daughter. The Shepherd informs him that Doricles owns rich grazing land. A servant brings news that there is a “pedlar at the door” and Autolycus is shown in, disguised.
    Lines 241–344: Autolycus sings an enticing song about his wares, and a comic, bawdy exchange ensues among Mopsa, Dorcas, Autolycus, and the Clown, who fails to recognize Autolycus as the man who “cozened” him. Mopsa and Dorcas join Autolycus in song and the Clown leads them away, offering to buy gifts for both girls.
    Lines 345–506: Further entertainment arrives and, as they watch, Polixenes tells Camillo that it is “time to part” Florizel and Perdita. He speaks to Florizel, pretending not to recognize him. Florizel, not recognizing