Question

What did Shakespeare mean by this line

This day should Clarence closely be mew'd up

Answer 1

In this line, Shakespeare is referring to George Plantagenet, the Duke of Clarence, being confined or imprisoned. "Mew'd up" suggests being put in a cage or enclosure, symbolizing the restriction of Clarence's freedom and confinement. Shakespeare is hinting at the imminent danger and impending death that Clarence faces in this play.