Act 2, Second Scene (p. 336-340) Summary

The second scene of Act 2 transpires in Segismundo's tower cell. Clotaldo, Clarnn, and some servants have transported a drugged Segismundo back to his cell, where he has been once again outfitted in rough skins and encumbered with chains. After Segismundo is secure, Clotaldo has Clarnn cast into a cell also—now that Clarnn knows Segismundo's secret, he is a danger to the security of the kingdom. Basilio, in disguise, visits the cell and confides in Clotaldo that his recent escapade was probably an error. Basilio then departs and Segismundo awakens. Taken aback to be returned to a cell, Segismundo bemoans his unfortunate fate. Clotaldo listens and then explains that Segismundo surely had not left the cell—the palace, the women, the prince's finery were all but a dream. Convinced and saddened, Segismundo accepts...