Act 3, Third Scene (351 - end) Summary

The third scene of Act 3—the final scene in the play—transpires upon an open field. Segismundo, dressed in animal skins like a wild man, and his soldiers take the field of battle. Rosaura rides up dressed in the clothing of a peasant. In a nearly five-page monologue she recapitulates her history and announces she will join with Segismundo in fighting against Astolfo. Segismundo is, as always, smitten by lustful desire. In his confusion, he delivers a long monologue in which he wonders how Rosaura could know so many salient details about his previously-princely episode if it were merely a dream. Additionally, he wonders about the corrosive influence of physical lust. He then rides away from Rosaura, largely ignoring her request that she ride with him. She calls out for clarification, and he...