Act 4 Summary

The fourth act takes place in Sigismund's new prison cell, a subterranean chamber beneath the tower. Sigismund sits on his bed. Julian and Anton appear, with Anton carrying a bundle of robes. Conversation reveals that it's been a long time since Sigismund saw Julian. Julian has been making plans for Sigismund's escape, but Sigismund believes there is no chance of true freedom for him. Every time Julian visits, though, Sigismund finds it possible to imagine himself back in the world again. Julian tells him that he and not the King is his true spiritual father, and he encourages Sigismund to be brave. Anton says he's just heard a shot, but Julian tells him to listen for a knock on the door and nothing else. He then tells Sigismund in intensely poetic language that while he was away, rebellion against the King and the...