Richard II Lesson Plan

How does Shakespeare solidify Richard's fall from power in today's reading?

Richard's descent is slowly becoming apparent and absolute. His arrival at Wales is symbolically represented when he touches the ground of Wales, saying "Dear earth, I do salute thee with my hand." The image of the king brought down to the ground is reinforced when Richard is informed that the Welsh army has returned home.

It is in this scene that he realizes that he cannot defeat Bolingbroke and must surrender. Richard's disbanding of the army thus leaves him completely alone to finish his tragic fall.

What opposing approaches to being a ruler does this play present?

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