Richard II

Against the advice of his counselors, Richard II has been taking money from England's coffers and spending it on fashion and close friends. In order to continue his wasteful spending, he raises taxes on the commoners and leases portions of English land to wealthy noblemen. He also sees an opportunity to seize more land and money after hearing news of John of Gaunt's failing health.
King Richard arrives at Windsor Castle to settle a dispute between Henry Bolingbroke, the Duke of Hereford and son of John of Gaunt, and Thomas Mowbray, the Duke of Norfolk. Bolingbroke accuses Mowbray of numerous counts of treason: embezzling funds for Richard's soldiers, conspiring against the king for the past eighteen years, and murdering the Duke of Gloucester. Mowbray denies these charges and claims to have repented for any wrongs he has caused in the past. John of Gaunt tries to convince the two to reconcile, but his attempts fall on deaf ears. Richard determines that a trial by combat will settle the matter.
This Standard Ebooks edition is based on William George Clark and William Aldis Wright's 1887 Victoria edition, which is taken from the Globe edition.
Perfect for readers who love Shakespeare's masterful exploration of power, legitimacy, and the fall of kings! This gripping historical drama showcases the Bard at his finest, weaving political intrigue with profound questions about divine right and human ambition that remain startlingly relevant today. A must-read for anyone seeking classic literature that combines beautiful poetry with timeless themes of betrayal, honor, and the price of absolute power.