Execution of Anne Boleyn
Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII, is executed by beheading on charges of adultery, incest, and treason. She stands on the scaffold, delivering a final speech before kneeling for the exe
Setting
Tower Green within the Tower of London, a small private execution site reserved for nobility, surrounded by high stone walls and guarded towers. The grass is neatly trimmed, and a wooden scaffold has been erected in the center.
Characters
Anne Boleyn
primary
A striking woman in her mid-thirties, with dark expressive eyes and auburn hair, now slightly disheveled from confinement. Her pale complexion contrasts with the high cheekbones and sharp features that once captivated a king. She stands with regal bearing despite the circumstances, her slender frame wrapped in somber garments.
Executioner
secondary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 30s with a weathered face, deep-set eyes, and a thick beard. His hands are large and calloused from years of wielding a sword. He carries himself with the quiet confidence of a professional who has performed this duty many times before.
Lady-in-Waiting
secondary
A young woman in her early twenties, slender and pale with delicate features. Her hands are visibly trembling as she assists Anne, betraying her nervousness despite her composed demeanor. Her light brown hair is neatly tucked under a French hood, and her blue eyes are red-rimmed from suppressed tears.
Tower Constable
background
A middle-aged man with a stern, lined face and a solid build, his posture upright and authoritative. He has short, graying hair and keen eyes that survey the proceedings with practiced detachment.
Priest
background
A middle-aged man of slight build with a gaunt face, deep-set eyes, and thin lips. His graying hair is cropped short in the tonsure style, and his pale complexion suggests long hours spent indoors in study and prayer. His hands are clasped together, fingers interlaced, in a gesture of solemn devotion.
Dialog
Anne Boleyn
Good Christian people, I am come hither to die, for according to the law and by the law I am judged to die, and therefore I will speak nothing against it.
Executioner
My lady, if it please you, kneel and make ready.
Anne Boleyn
I pray you, sir, dispatch me quickly... and I shall have a little neck.
Executioner
The sword is sharp, my lady. But first you must be blindfolded.