Publisher's Synopsis
The Life and Death of King Richard the Second is a historical play written by William Shakespeare. It is a dramatization of the reign of King Richard II of England, who ruled from 1377 to 1399. The play follows Richard's downfall, from his initial arrogance and self-importance to his eventual deposition and death. The story is set against a backdrop of political intrigue, as rival factions within the royal court vie for power and influence. The play explores themes of power, authority, loyalty, and betrayal, as well as the nature of divine right and the legitimacy of rulership. The characters include Richard himself, his cousin Henry Bolingbroke, who becomes King Henry IV, and a host of other historical figures. The play is known for its poetic language and its exploration of complex psychological and political themes. It is considered one of Shakespeare's greatest works and a masterpiece of Elizabethan drama.Qu. To please the King, I did: to please my selfe I cannot do it: yet I know no cause Why I should welcome such a guest as greefe, Saue bidding farewell to so sweet a guest As my sweet Richard; yet againe me thinkes, Some vnborne sorrow, ripe in fortunes wombe.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
