Richard 2 Act 1-2

Question

Richard II

Richard 2 Act 1-2

What is the source of the Lords' complaints about King Richard? What is their fear? How do these lords' words inform your understanding of the responsibilities and expectations of a king and, specifically, of Richard's? Some scholars believe that much of what fuels the hatred of the kings' opposers, the lords and Bolingbroke, is homophobia. . When Bolingbroke requests to kiss the King's hand before the duel, Richard descends and kisses him on the lips. What is Bolinbroke's reaction? Why does Richard do this to his cousin publicly and right before a duel?

Asked by Rita T #1011031 on 4/25/2020 7:06 PM

Last updated by Aslan on 4/25/2020 10:59 PM

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Answered by Aslan on 4/25/2020 7:09 PM

Sorry, this is only a short answer space. Here is a general comment on the beginning of Act 2.

John of Gaunt, close to dying, is sitting in a chair speaking with the Duke of York. He wishes that Richard would arrive because he want to advise Richard on becoming a better king. York informs Gaunt that it is unlikely Richard will ever listen to him, since the king has surrounded himself with flatterers. Gaunt predicts that Richard's, "rash, fierce blaze of riot cannot last" (2.1.33). He speaks of the glorious past he has seen England live through, and wishes that his death will allow England to renew hew glory.

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