Synopsis
Richard II
King Richard II by Shakespeare is one of his most praised historical plays. It’s a salient tale of loyalty versus betrayal that also grapples with the meaning of glory in kingship or lack thereof. The story begins with two feuding noblemen, Henry Bolingbroke and Thomas Mowbray. They both accuse the other of treason by murdering Richard’s uncle, who is also the Duke of Gloucester. They bring these claims before the royal court in search of some resolution. Richard II decides that to avoid them from killing each other, they should be banished to distant lands. This stirs up conflict among the nobility, but also leads to Richard being exposed for his corruptness. Who will remain loyal to him and who will shift their allegiance to the next heir, Henry Bolingbroke? This story is insightful because it shows both the power and futility of glory, but also what can happen to a person when it is suddenly ripped away. Shakespeare uses the play as a vessel to indirectly communicate how social stratification operated in Elizabethan England.
Review
I enjoyed the concept of Richard II more so than the plot, but also recognize its significance as an artistic recording of history. It was exhausting hearing these privileged men complain and argue back and forth with each other for three acts. There are some redeeming characters, for example Lord Gaunt and Bolingbroke, but most everyone is a member of the nobility and I thought the story would benefit from more diversity. Richard’s monologues are excessive and I just couldn’t get myself to care for the British monarchy where it is set. It’s a lot of people talking with no real tangible actions. Of course, Shakespeares prose is beautiful and I enjoyed his nature imagery, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to read his other historical plays.