The Hollow Crown: Glossary

Glossary

epitaph       – short pieces of writing inscribed on tombstones in memory of the dead

executors    – persons who put someone’s terms of will into effect

bequeath     – pass on something to the next generation by means of a will       

deposed      – removed   from  office  or power

slain  – killed

antic  – someone  who   draws attention through silly or funny acts (here a court jester)

scoffing       – expressing mockery

grinning      – smiling wildly   

monarchize – rule , carry out the duties and functions of a ruler

impregnable – impossible    to    pass through

ceremonious – being very formal

Explanation:

Lines 1-3 :

When King Richard abdicates his throne and surrenders the political control of England to the rebellious Henry Bolingbroke, he desperately realises the mortality of kings. ‘Dust’ is compared to paper and ‘Rainy eyes’ to writing instruments.

Line 9 :

‘small model of the barren earth’ - the body’s flesh stands for all perishable things - here a “model” of the “barren earth

Line 16:

hollow crown - the crown is empty in the middle and this connotes that power is not solid or strong or permanent

Line 18 :

‘there the antic sits... farewell king’ - here Death is portrayed as a court jester who grants the mortal kings, the temporary licence to ‘monarchise’.