Play on Words

comedic · any · ~1 min · 170 words

Cel monologue — Volpone

If you have ears that will be pierc'd--or eyes That can be open'd--a heart that may be touch'd-- Or any part that yet sounds man about you-- If you have touch of holy saints--or heaven-- Do me the grace to let me 'scape--if not, Be bountiful and kill me. You do know, I am a creature, hither ill betray'd, By one, whose shame I would forget it were: If you will deign me neither of these graces, Yet feed your wrath, sir, rather than your lust, (It is a vice comes nearer manliness,) And punish that unhappy crime of nature, Which you miscall my beauty; flay my face, Or poison it with ointments, for seducing Your blood to this rebellion. Rub these hands, With what may cause an eating leprosy, E'en to my bones and marrow: any thing, That may disfavour me, save in my honour-- And I will kneel to you, pray for you, pay down A thousand hourly vows, sir, for your health; Report, and think you virtuous--

Public domain — free to perform in auditions, showcases and productions.