How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line)
Quote #1
KING
To every county
Where this is questioned send our letters with
Free pardon to each man that has denied
The force of this commission. Pray look to 't;
I put it to your care. (1.2.113-117)
The first act of forgiveness we see in the play is a political one. Henry pardons those who were imprisoned for not paying Wolsey's random new tax. It's all very well and good, but then we get to thinking about Wolsey in all this. Why are the people paying for his mistake in the first place? We can't really call it forgiveness when the people didn't really do anything wrong.
Quote #2
KING
Call him to present trial. If he may
Find mercy in the law, 'tis his; if none,
Let him not seek 't of us. By day and night,
He's traitor to th' height! (1.2.244-247)
Henry's just put out one fire (tax pardon) when another one starts up. It's about Buckingham, of course, and Wolsey brings in evidence for him to be tried for treason. Henry's response is interesting because he wants to be merciful to Buckingham, but there may be no mercy in the law.
Quote #3
BUCKINGHAM
The law I bear no malice for my death;
'T has done, upon the premises, but justice.
But those that sought it I could wish more Christians.
Be what they will, I heartily forgive 'em.
Yet let 'em look they glory not in mischief,
Nor build their evils on the graves of great men... (2.1.79-84)
As he is being taken to die, Buckingham proclaims that he forgives anyone and everyone involved in his sentence. It's a pretty bold statement—and a moving one, too. Shakespeare leaves the reason behind this speech a mystery. Is Buckingham feeling guilty over his (treasonous) actions, or is he just a really forgiving guy who wants to die with no regrets? You decide.