49 pages • 1 hour read
Richard II
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Book Brief
300
Play • Fiction
England • 14th century
1597
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
Richard II by William Shakespeare portrays the last two years of King Richard II's life, focusing on his ineffective leadership and growing unpopularity, which lead to his overthrow by Henry Bolingbroke, who ascends as Henry IV. As Richard's reign collapses, he exhibits profound self-reflection, bringing pathos to his downfall and raising questions about corruption, legitimacy, and identity.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Melancholic
Dark
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
25,703 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
William Shakespeare's Richard II is praised for its lyrical prose and exploration of the complexities of power and kingship. Critics highlight the depth of Richard's character and the play's historical significance. Some find it less action-packed compared to Shakespeare's other histories, potentially making it less engaging for some audiences. Overall, it remains a compelling study of authority and identity.
Who Should Read Richard II?
Readers who relish historical drama, intricate political intrigue, and profound explorations of power and identity will appreciate William Shakespeare’s Richard II. Fans of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall or Robert Bolt’s A Man for All Seasons will find Shakespeare's portrayal of regal downfall and the human condition particularly compelling.
25,703 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Henry Bolingbroke/King Henry IV
Henry Bolingbroke/King Henry IV
Duke of Hereford and cousin to King Richard II, who initially returns to England to reclaim his inheritance, displaying shrewd political acumen.
John of Gaunt
John of Gaunt
The Duke of Lancaster, father to Bolingbroke, and uncle to Richard II, known for his patriotic pride and frank assessments of England's leadership.
Edmund of Langley (Duke of York)
Edmund of Langley (Duke of York)
The Duke of York, uncle to both Richard II and Bolingbroke, who finds himself conflicted in his loyalties as political tensions rise.
Duke of Aumerle
Duke of Aumerle
Son of the Duke of York and cousin to Richard and Bolingbroke, who remains loyal to Richard II amid shifting allegiances.
Thomas Mowbray
Thomas Mowbray
The Duke of Norfolk, whose dispute with Bolingbroke sets off a chain of events central to the play's conflict.
Sir Henry Greene
Sir Henry Greene
A supporter of King Richard II, serving as an advisor and facing the consequences of political realignment.
Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland
Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland
A nobleman who becomes an early and significant supporter of Bolingbroke due to dissatisfaction with King Richard II's rule.
Bishop of Carlisle
Bishop of Carlisle
An ardent supporter of King Richard II, voicing opposition to the rebellion and concern for the kingdom's stability.
Sir Piers Exton
Sir Piers Exton
A supporter of Bolingbroke, whose actions underscore the play's pivotal and dramatic moments concerning Richard II.
The Gardener
The Gardener
Speaks in allegory, using his work to comment on the broader state of the kingdom and its governance.
The Queen
The Queen
Richard II's wife, hailing from France, who expresses deep emotional responses to the unfolding events surrounding her husband.
300
Play • Fiction
England • 14th century
1597
Adult
16+ years
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