Richard II shows no sense of justice right from the beginning of this play. He banishes Bolingbroke from England, and seizes John of Gaunt’s property and money. Richard’s main concern is to raise money for the war in Ireland. He is excited at hearing the news of Gaunt’s death so he can get money and leave for Ireland. Once he hears Bolingbroke is coming to invade England, he does not really put up a fight. He shows how weak he is because he doesn’t know how to fight back. He uses his poetic words as weapons such as when he is giving up the thrown:
“Ay, no; no,ay; for I must be nothing; / Therefore no, no, for I resign to thee. / Now mark me how I undo myself” (4.1.191-193).
I think Richard uses this clever language to make everyone feel sorry for him. It is his only way to fight back and feel power over Bolingbroke.
Bolingbroke proves to be an effective leader when he returns to England. He knows how to handle situations effectively, and has a way with his words. He never states that he wants to take the crown from Richard, but he ends up getting it in the end because Richard is weak and proves himself unfit as king.
New Paltz Students Blogging about Shakespeare
2 comments:
I know Bolingbroke never explicitly said that he wants to be king, but isn't it safe to assume that his actions prove his true intentions? Also, I do think that he is very responsible for gaining power (rather than him becoming in power only due to Richard's unfit ways.)
Your take on Richard's language is insightful, Jessica. Richard uses the language of those without power (the fool or clown) as a way of speaking back to power. I'd be curious to know if you think this is effective. Does he successfully challenge (now) King Henry's authority through this speech?
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