#49: Richard III by William Shakespeare

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100 books, book review, books, drama, literature, Shakespeare

Tonight I wrapped up Shakespeare’s War of the Roses tetralogy with Richard III.  This is the play that inspired me to read the entire saga.  I read an article a few weeks ago that described Kevin Spacey’s recent performance as the titular Richard III.  I am a huge fan of Kevin Spacey.  The guy is amazingly versatile, and the picture of him as Richard had me hooked.  When I discovered that this was the last in a series of four plays, I decided to tackle the entire group.  I enjoyed them all, but Richard III is definitely my favorite.

Kevin Spacey as Richard III

I have previously discussed Shakespeare’s amazing psychological insight and masterful depiction of politics. I won’t revisit those themes.  Instead, I will focus on the title character.  Richard is easily one of my favorite Shakespearean villains.  This guy is like Darth Vader and Michael Corleone combined.  Machiavellian doesn’t even begin to describe him.  Richard is the bad guy who you can’t help but like.  The only thing I would change about the play was the ending.  I wish Richard had won in the end.  This isn’t Shakespeare’s fault, as he was restrained by historical events.  Despite the ending, this was an outstanding play and well worth the effort.  Take the time to read all three parts of Henry VI first in order to get the entire back story.

The Current Count:

49 Read, 51 To Go

#48: Henry VI, Part 3 by William Shakespeare

Tags

100 books, book review, books, drama, literature, Shakespeare

Henry VI, Part 3 continues the War of the Roses saga where Part 2 left off.  The forces of the house of Lancaster, nominally led by Henry VI, have been defeated by the forces of Plantagenet, led by Richard, Duke of York.  York pursues Henry and Queen Margaret to London, where he forces the king to adopt him as heir.  Henry will be allowed to rule for the duration of his life.  After that the regal power will pass to Richard and his sons.  Needless to say, Henry’s wife and son are less than thrilled.

What follows is a series of battles between the two sides, with each faction trading victories.  Richard is killed in battle and his title passes to his eldest son Edward, who assumes the titles of both king and Duke of York.  Together with his brothers, he continues the struggle against Henry and the forces of Lancaster.  After several vacillations of fortune, the Plantagenets emerge victorious.  Henry is killed and Edward appears secure on the throne.

I loved this play.  Shakespeare is a master of portraying political intrigue.  The various motivations that drive the actions of every character are expertly presented.  These motivations set the stage perfectly for the final part of the tetralogy.  I look forward to finishing the saga with Richard III.

The Current Count:

48 Read, 52 To Go