The Lion in Winter Film Summary & Analysis

Symbols

Henry's Crown

Henry's crown is the symbol of power. Ruling a country is the ultimate power, and everyone in the family wants to succeed Henry. All the family problems and all the feuds return to this one item - the crown. Henry tries to ignore the problems in his family, but when he is faced with the truth of their betrayal, he sees their love for his crown.

Henry's crown also symbolizes the past and the future. Past alliances and plans have been made through the power of that crown. Alais, Philip's sister and Henry's mistress, lives in the palace because she was promised to Richard many years before. The future of the country rests in whoever wears that crown upon his head.

Eleanor's Boat

Eleanor's boat arriving and leaving signals the beginning and end of both a family event and an era. When Eleanor arrives, the whole family is...
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