Shakespeare plays RICHARD II, King of England

Illustration: Shakespeare plays Richard dressed in medieval armour; he looks dispirited as he kneels on one knee, one hand resting on the helmet on the ground beside him

Thumbnail: Shakespeare on stage. Use as a link to the full-size illustration

Returning from campaigning abroad, Richard finds his country invaded, his armies deserted and his favourites executed. This dismal news makes him very gloomy.
Richard II
Act 3 Scene 2

See Shakespeare on stage and read more of the script

What York said
about Richard:

"Yet looks he like a king. Behold, his eye, as bright as the eagle's, lightens forth controlling majesty."

Richard II
Act 3 Scene 3