Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Richard II, 1377-1399 Books
Best books
Raphael Holinshed
Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (12 of 12) Richard the Second, the Second Sonne to Edward Prince of Wales
"Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (12 of 12)" by Raphael Holinshed is a historical chronicle first published in 1577. This collaborative work offers a comprehensive account of British history, weaving together narratives of kings, battles, and political intrigue. Famous as a primary source for Shakespeare's history plays and tragedies like Macbeth and King Lear, the Chronicles shaped Renaissance literature's understanding of the past. Its pages reveal how sixteenth-century England interpreted its own heritage, blending facts with rhetorical flourishes that defined national identity and monarchical ideals.
Jacob Abbott
Richard II Makers of History
"Richard II" by Jacob Abbott is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work presents a narrative of English history focused on King Richard II, exploring the feudal chivalry of the time, the lineage of English kings, and the tumultuous events spanning from the death of King Richard I to Richard II's own deposition. The text delves into themes of power, legitimacy, and the confrontations between monarchs and nobles, capturing the complexities of governance during a pivotal era in England. The opening of the book sets the stage by discussing the historical context surrounding King Richard II, detailing the lineage of the monarchy and the turbulent nature of kingship during the era of feudalism. Abbott introduces Richard I, known as the Crusader, his successor King John, and the subsequent monarchs leading up to Richard II. The chapter outlines the struggles of kings to maintain power amid challenges from both the nobility and the populace, emphasizing the precarious balance of authority and the various insurrections that arose from disputes over succession and rights. The text serves to illustrate not just the events that transpired but also the underlying ideas of governance and feudal duty that defined the relationships between rulers and their subjects.
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