King Richard II

A king who believes he is chosen by God loses his crown to a cousin who claims only his inheritance. William Shakespeare's King Richard II is a history play about power, identity and the terrible cost of civil conflict. It contains some of Shakespeare's most lyrical poetry, a central role of great range, and a story that moves from royal ceremony to a prison cell.

This play will appeal to readers who enjoy political drama, rich language and characters who question who they are when everything is taken from them. It is also a key part of Shakespeare's sequence of English history plays, and it sets the stage for the reigns of Henry IV and Henry V.

This edition contains the complete text of the play, a new introduction for first-time readers, a character guide, a summary of the plot, notes on the play's themes, a glossary of old and unusual words, and questions for discussion. It is designed for students, book clubs and anyone who wants to read Shakespeare with confidence and pleasure.