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Richard II | King Richard II of England (Character Analysis)

He is the ruler of England and the title character. Early in the play, it becomes clear that Richard's view of himself and his office differs markedly from the view held by his subjects. Richard governs according to the divine right of kings—a precept which argues that God determines who should rule.

In keeping with this doctrine, a monarch is sprinkled or "anointed" with consecrated oil on the day of his coronation as a symbol of his election by God. In the play, Richard's government runs into trouble because he passionately believes that his decrees are sacred and that, as he...

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