“[Bolingbroke] weighs [Richard] down” : The Idea of Perfect Monarch in Richard II

Abstract

In his history plays Shakespeare presents the idea of perfect monarch who achieves to unite the nation regardless of class distinctions, and demonstrates that if a sovereign violates the laws and disregards common consent, s/he fails to exercise justice, and consequently establishes despotic rule. Hence, the aim of this article is to argue that in Richard II Shakespeare puts forth the distinction between a perfect monarch and a tyrant through the comparison of Richard II, the legitimate king, and Bolingbroke, who ascends the throne as King Henry IV after he usurps the throne. Richard is presented as an unjust king who violates the laws and customs; suppresses his people through illegal monetary practices; empowers insufficient counsellors, and loses the love and support of the noblemen and the common men; whereas, Bolingbroke is portrayed as an effective sovereign as he respects the laws and customs; fights injustice and gains the admiration of the nobility and the commoners. Therefore, it will be argued that as Shakespeare presents, being law-abiding and protecting the rights of the people are the qualities of an ideal ruler while flouting the laws and dispossessing the people are the features of an ineffective and a despotic monarch. Accordingly, it will also be demonstrated that through the medieval English history and politics Shakespeare refers to the idea of perfect monarch in the Elizabethan era. He refers to Elizabeth I’s abuse of her sovereign authority to entrust her favourites with authority and to suppress her people by corrupt financial practices.