Richard III

Synopsis

Richard III is the last of Shakespeare's War of the Roses plays, which cover the great wars between the houses of York and Lancashire. At this point, Edward IV has firmly consolidated power, but his scheming brother, Richard, (known as Gloucester until he is crowned) is plotting to take the throne for himself. He asks Lady Anne to marry him, which will solidify his position. She agrees, even though Richard was responsible for the murder of her husband. When Edward dies, Richard proceeds to murder, imprison, and execute his rivals, including the two young sons of Edward, until he is crowned king. Meanwhile, Henry, Earl of Richmond, is amassing an army to challenge Richard. During the final battle, Richard is desperate, crying out the famous lines, "My kingdom for a horse!" Ultimately, Richard is killed, and Henry of Richmond ascends to the throne as King Henry VII.