The Comedy of Errors

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes depictions of violence, misogyny, and period-typical depictions of mental illness.

Angelo apologizes to the Second Merchant for delaying his journey, but says that he definitely gave Antipholus the chain. He is baffled that Antipholus denies this, as he has a good reputation in the city.

Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse enter. Antipholus is wearing the chain. Angelo confronts him about the trouble he has caused, but Antipholus denies ever having denied that Angelo gave him the chain. The Second Merchant attests that he heard Antipholus deny receipt of the chain. They square up, and draw their swords.

Adriana runs in with Luciana and the Courtesan. She pleads that no one should hurt Antipholus, as he is “mad,” but instructs that he and Dromio should be disarmed and bound. He and Dromio flee into a priory.

Emilia, the Abbess, emerges and asks what is going on. Adriana explains that her husband is “mad.” The Abbess questions her about the cause of this “madness,” asking if he has suffered some grief or was unfaithful.