Richard III -interpretations

Richard III has intrigued many throughout the ages and its multidimensional possibilities give rise to many interpretations. It can be viewed from a traditional Shakespearean tragedy angle, because of its concerns with ambition and fear, and the presence of definitive revenge elements. On the other hand, a Marxist text is also possible. A turbulent court and its dealings with the nature of power, point to a Marxist model of class struggle within a distinctly classed society.

Tragedy plays are often characterised by the exploration of ambition and fear. The lure of the throne engenders ambition which compels Richard to murder. His single-mindedness murders his brother, Clarence so that his path to kingship may be cleared. However, fear also compels Richard to murder to remain in power. Richard admits that he has stepped “so far in blood that sin will pluck on sin” which gives him enough courage to murder the two princes – the pinnacle of his bloodiness. His soul is consequently set in turmoil. Anne complains of his murdered sleep – “I…never…did…sleep with his timorous dreams”. On the eve of Bosworth, Richard is wracked by guilt and self-doubt. Though it does not last long, his psyche is nevertheless unsettled, haunted by his p

. . .

View the whole essay, without interruption

He also orchestrates the charade that tricks the Major into believing Richard is a “gracious Duke”. This can be seen on the eve of Bosworth; Richmond’s lords, who are loyal and heart-warming to him, are stark contrasts to Richard’s solitariness in his camp. iii, 196-227

Conscience does end up “gnawing” on his soul, resulting in sleepless nights and he dies ignominiously on foot in battle. The ease and success – “…was ever a woman in his humour won?” – with which Richard woos Anne, a crucial piece in the political power-brokering game, also indicates Richard’s gathering momentum. Richard, through his own actions is his undoing. The stress of the bombshell, which Richard drops, kills him, realising his fear. i, 152

He is in turn is replaced by Richmond and so each successor usurps the crown from the predecessor. “…false, fleeting, perjured Clarence” fulfils Margaret’s curse to “go unto the kingdom of perpetual light” as his dirty past deserves all the brunt of God’s wrath through Richard. Profound psychological analyse of the consequences of murder that comes with ambition and fear is explored and revenge elements are employed. Richard’s attempt to secure young Elizabeth is also bungled. As wealth and influence shifts, Buckingham defects to Richmond’s side, and marks the start of Richard’s downslide from power. They pose a threat to Richard’s crown and hence they are dealt with decisively.

Looking further into class struggle, the notion is of power is observed to be a key issue and its pattern is explored. Devine vengeance also takes the form of a scourge. Richard III is a classic Shakespearean work; the themes explored within his texts are of universal appeal throughout the ages and across cultures which can be interpreted in many different ways.

Approximate Word count = 1388
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)

Simply subscribe to view this paper, and 100,000 others.