cymbeline

📝 Cymbeline in a Nutshell

A tale of love, lies, exile, mistaken identities — and a surprising happy ending.

👑 Act I – A Secret Marriage and Royal Anger

King Cymbeline of Britain is furious when his daughter Imogen secretly marries Posthumus, a poor but noble man. The king had planned to marry her to his cruel stepson Cloten. Posthumus is banished, and Imogen is left heartbroken. Meanwhile, the queen (Imogen’s stepmother) plots to gain power.

🎭 Act II – A Dangerous Wager

In Italy, Posthumus foolishly bets a sly man named Iachimo that Imogen will never betray him. Iachimo tricks his way into her bedroom, steals items to make it look like she’s been unfaithful, and convinces Posthumus she cheated. In a fit of rage, Posthumus orders his servant to kill her — though the servant secretly spares her.

🌲 Act III – Disguise and Escape

Imogen, now disguised as a boy named Fidele, flees to Wales. There, she unknowingly takes shelter with Belarius, an old soldier who had kidnapped Cymbeline’s two lost sons years ago — meaning Imogen has found her long-lost brothers! Meanwhile, Cloten goes after her, wearing Posthumus’s clothes, but is killed by one of her brothers.

⚔️ Act IV – War and Revelations

Rome declares war on Britain after Cymbeline refuses to pay tribute. Posthumus returns to fight for Britain, hoping to redeem himself. In the battle, the disguised brothers and Belarius save the king. Posthumus is captured by the British and wants to die, thinking Imogen is dead.

🎉 Act V – The Big Reveal

In a dramatic final scene, all secrets are revealed:

Imogen is alive
Posthumus learns she was faithful
The two lost princes are reunited with their father
The queen dies and her evil plans are exposed
Cymbeline forgives everyone
Peace is restored between Rome and Britain

💬 Theme in One Line:

“Truth and loyalty will rise, even through lies, disguise, and exile.”