Summary and Analysis
Act IV:
Scene 1
Summary
A Chorus symbolizing Time announces that sixteen years have passed. During those years, Leontes has replaced his jealousy with seclusion, while Florizel (the son of the king of Bohemia) and Perdita have grown up and matured in Bohemia.
Analysis
As in ancient Greek plays, a Chorus substitutes narrative for dramatic action. In addition to preparing the audience for an adult Florizel and Perdita, when next we see them, the narrative transcends the focus from the actions of Leontes to the actions of the Bohemian cast of characters.