Richard

Richard, the Duke of Gloucester and later King Richard III, is depicted as a Machiavellian and sinister figure, embodying the grim humor of the medieval Devil or Vice from morality plays. He is a fiendish and ambitious monster whose hypocrisy allows him to effectively disguise his ruthless ambition until he seizes the throne. Richard’s portrayal in this play is consistent with his character in King Henry VI. This role is a favorite among actors due to the opportunities it offers for showcasing virtuosity. Richard cunningly manipulates others, such as when he convinces his brother Clarence of his sympathy while orchestrating his imprisonment. His deceit is so convincing that Clarence, even when faced with death at the hands of Richard's murderers, defends his brother’s supposed kindness. A master of disguise and deceit, Richard manages to manipulate the political landscape to his advantage, successfully orchestrating his path to the throne. His character is a study of villainy, demonstrating an unrelenting drive for power that is both captivating and horrifying.

King Edward IV

King Edward IV, the eldest son of the late Duke of York, is portrayed as an aging monarch burdened by a sin-ridden past and present remorse. Despite his efforts to reconcile the hostile factions at court, he is tricked by Richard into ordering Clarence's death, a decision he later regrets but cannot reverse. This grief over his brother’s execution hastens his own demise. Edward’s promiscuity and early entanglements with women are used by Richard to tarnish his reputation and question the legitimacy of his heirs, thereby positioning Richard as a more virtuous figure. His inability to control his own court and protect his family ultimately leads to the unraveling of the York dynasty, setting the stage for Richard’s ascension to power.

George

George, the Duke of Clarence, is the brother of Edward and Richard. He becomes entangled in treachery and perjury in his efforts to secure his brother Edward’s throne. Bewildered by his imprisonment and eventual death, he experiences haunting dreams fueled by guilt and fears being alone. Only at the moment of his murder does he realize that his seemingly virtuous brother Richard is to blame for his sufferings. Clarence’s death, orchestrated by Richard, is brutal and humiliating, emphasizing Richard’s deceitful nature and marking an early insight into his manipulative character. His tragic end serves as a grim foreshadowing of the fates that await others who stand in Richard’s way.

Queen Margaret

Queen Margaret, the widow of the murdered King Henry VI, is a malevolent presence in the play. Her extensive curse, delivered near the beginning, serves as a blueprint for the ensuing events, as she condemns her enemies with prophetic accuracy. Her role as a prophetess of doom underscores the inevitability of Richard’s downfall, highlighting the themes of fate and retribution that permeate the narrative. Margaret’s curse not only drives the plot but also serves as a moral commentary on the consequences of unchecked ambition and betrayal.

The Duke of Buckingham

The Duke of Buckingham, a kinsman and staunch supporter of Richard, is a masterful politician instrumental in placing Richard on the throne. However, he hesitates to partake in the murder of the young princes, resulting in his loss of favor, a failed rebellion, capture, and execution. As he faces his end, he reflects on Queen Margaret's curses and prophecies, realizing the gravity of ignoring her warnings. Buckingham’s fall from grace illustrates the dangers of political ambition devoid of moral restraint, and his execution underscores Richard’s ruthless consolidation of power.

Edward, Prince of Wales

Edward, Prince of Wales, later King Edward V, is the elder son of King Edward IV. A bright and courageous boy, he evokes pathos through his behavior and premature, violent death at the hands of his uncle Richard. His tragic fate serves as a poignant reminder of the innocence lost amid the political machinations of his family. The young prince’s murder underscores the depths of Richard’s ambition and the lengths to which he will go to secure his position.

Richard (Duke of York)

Richard, the Duke of York, is King Edward’s younger son. An impish and precocious child, he engages in witty exchanges with his ominous uncle Richard. Tragically, he and his brother meet their end in the Tower of London, victims of their uncle's ambition. Their deaths are a testament to the merciless nature of Richard’s ascent to power, highlighting the collateral damage wrought by his quest for the throne. The loss of these young princes serves as a catalyst for the eventual downfall of Richard III.

Henry Tudor

Henry Tudor, the Earl of Richmond, and later King Henry VII, emerges as Richard’s principal adversary. A heroic figure, he successfully invades England, defeating Richard in hand-to-hand combat at the Battle of Bosworth Field. His final speech promises the end of civil strife and the unification of the houses of York and Lancaster through his marriage to Elizabeth, King Edward IV’s daughter. Henry’s victory marks the restoration of order and the beginning of a new era in English history. His triumph over Richard symbolizes the triumph of justice and legitimacy over tyranny and deceit.

Lord Thomas Stanley

Lord Thomas Stanley, the Earl of Derby and Richmond’s stepfather, is skeptical of Richard from the outset. Although he feigns allegiance to Richard out of fear, his loyalty lies with Richmond. At the Battle of Bosworth Field, he risks his son George’s life, who is held hostage by Richard, by withholding his troops. George’s life is spared by Richard’s death. Stanley’s calculated risk and ultimate decision to support Richmond exemplify the thin line that many characters must walk between survival and loyalty in the treacherous political landscape.

Lord Hastings

Lord Hastings, the Lord Chamberlain under Edward IV, is a staunch loyalist to King Edward and his sons. Despite being an adversary to Queen Elizabeth and her kin, his loyalty prevents him from becoming Richard’s pawn in discrediting the young Edward V’s claim. Trusting Richard to a fault, Hastings meets his demise for his unwavering loyalty and trust in Edward. His execution is a chilling reminder of the peril faced by those who underestimate Richard’s cunning, and serves as a pivotal moment in his consolidation of power.

Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth, King Edward IV’s wife, is portrayed as a proud and self-determined woman with numerous enemies at court, especially Hastings and Richard. After her sons’ murder, she becomes a grieving, nearly deranged mother. Her fear for her daughter’s safety compels her to feign consent to Richard’s proposal of marriage. However, this horrific union is averted by Richard’s death. Elizabeth’s plight highlights the vulnerability of women in a patriarchal society and the extremes to which she must go to protect her remaining family.

The Duchess of York

The Duchess of York, mother to Edward IV, Clarence, and Richard III, is a loving grandmother to Edward and Clarence’s children. Her deep-seated hatred and disdain for Richard culminate in a bitter curse as she sends him to his final battle, wishing for his ignominious death. Her maternal instincts and sorrow for her lost family members underscore the personal toll of Richard’s ambition, providing a poignant counterpoint to the political machinations of the play.

Cardinal Bourchier

Cardinal Bourchier, the Archbishop of Canterbury, plays a key role in Richard’s plans by aiding in gaining custody of the young Duke of York and facilitating his confinement in the Tower alongside his brother. Despite his reluctance, Bourchier's actions contribute to the tragic fate of the young princes. His involvement in Richard’s schemes highlights the corruption and manipulation within the religious and political institutions of the time.

Thomas Rotherham

Thomas Rotherham, the Archbishop of York, attempts to guide Queen Elizabeth and the young Duke of York to sanctuary, but his efforts ultimately prove fruitless. His well-intended actions are thwarted by the machinations of Richard, reflecting the pervasive sense of helplessness and futility experienced by those who seek to oppose the tyrant.

John Morton

John Morton, the Bishop of Ely, innocuously offers King Richard strawberries from his garden, a gesture sharply contrasted by the subsequent arrest and execution of Hastings. Morton’s seemingly benign presence belies the sinister events that unfold, illustrating the underlying tension and treachery that permeate the court. His participation in the council discussing the prince’s coronation unwittingly aids in Richard’s ploy of false security, further demonstrating the intricate web of deceit spun by Richard.

The Duke of Norfolk

The Duke of Norfolk, also known as Jockey of Norfolk, is a devoted follower of Richard III. In spite of a warning about Richard's betrayal, Norfolk remains loyal and perishes in battle. His steadfastness and loyalty, even in the face of doom, exemplify the tragic fates that await those who remain aligned with Richard to the bitter end.

Anthony Woodville

Anthony Woodville, the Earl Rivers and Queen Elizabeth’s brother, reconciles with his adversary Hastings at King Edward’s request. Despite this reconciliation, he is later arrested and executed on Richard’s orders. His execution demonstrates the treacherous nature of court alliances and the precariousness of those who find themselves in Richard’s path.

The Marquess of Dorset

The Marquess of Dorset, Queen Elizabeth’s son from her first marriage, manages to escape Richard’s schemes and joins forces with Richmond. His successful escape represents one of the few glimmers of hope in the narrative, highlighting the possibility of resistance and survival against Richard’s tyranny.

Lord Grey

Lord Grey, another son of Queen Elizabeth from her first marriage, supports Edward, Prince of Wales, for the throne. This allegiance makes him a target for Richard, leading to his execution. Grey’s demise underscores the dangerous stakes for those who oppose Richard and the tragic consequences of standing by the legitimate heir.

Sir Thomas Vaughan

Sir Thomas Vaughan is one of Richard’s victims, executed alongside Earl Rivers and Lord Grey. His death is indicative of the widespread purges Richard initiates to eliminate threats to his rule, reflecting the broader theme of loyalty and betrayal that runs through the play.

Sir Thomas, Lord Lovel

Sir Thomas, Lord Lovel, is a courtier and ally of Richard. He participates in the council meeting that results in Lord Hastings' execution, demonstrating his involvement in the machinations that facilitate Richard’s rise to power. Lovel’s role exemplifies the complicity of noblemen in Richard’s schemes and their contribution to the cycle of violence and treachery.

Sir Richard Ratcliff

Sir Richard Ratcliff is a staunch supporter of Richard, escorting Queen Elizabeth’s followers to their deaths and warning Richard of Richmond’s formidable approach. His unwavering loyalty to Richard demonstrates the dedication of Richard’s inner circle, even as they are complicit in his nefarious deeds.

Sir William Catesby

Sir William Catesby is another loyal confidant of Richard. He attempts to persuade Lord Hastings to support Richard’s claim and remains with Richard until he attempts to secure a horse for him during battle. Catesby’s loyalty and involvement in Richard’s schemes highlight the intricate web of influence and control Richard wields over his supporters.

Sir James Tyrrel

Sir James Tyrrel, a discontented and ambitious man, facilitates the murder of the young princes in the Tower at Richard's behest. Later, Tyrrel is engulfed by remorse for his heinous act. His character illustrates the moral decay and internal conflict faced by those who participate in Richard’s schemes, as well as the heavy burden of guilt that accompanies such actions.

Sir Robert Brackenbury

Sir Robert Brackenbury, the Tower of London’s lieutenant, reluctantly hands over the keys to Clarence’s murderers and is killed at Bosworth Field. His steadfastness to duty, even under duress, reflects the moral complexities faced by individuals caught in the crossfire of Richard’s ambitions. Brackenbury’s role highlights the tension between duty and conscience within the framework of Richard’s reign of terror.

The Keeper in the Tower

The Keeper, a compassionate figure in the Tower, strives to alleviate Clarence’s imprisonment. His small acts of kindness stand in stark contrast to the brutality and betrayal surrounding him, offering a glimpse of humanity amidst the pervasive treachery.

Christopher Urswick

Christopher Urswick, a priest, serves as Lord Derby’s messenger to Richmond, informing him that Young George Stanley is held hostage by Richard. Urswick’s role underscores the vital importance of communication and alliances in countering Richard’s tyranny, highlighting the broader network of opposition that ultimately contributes to Richard’s downfall.

The Lord Mayor of London

The Lord Mayor of London is manipulated by Richard and his cohort into supporting Richard’s ascension to the throne. His role demonstrates the susceptibility of civic leaders to manipulation and the extent of Richard’s influence over public perception and authority, contributing to his fraudulent rise to power.

Edward Plantagenet

Edward Plantagenet, the Earl of Warwick, is Clarence’s young son. His presence in the narrative symbolizes the enduring legacy of Clarence and the ongoing threat to Richard’s tenuous claim to power. Edward’s fate remains uncertain, reflecting the broader theme of vulnerability and survival in the chaotic political landscape.

Margaret Plantagenet

Margaret Plantagenet is Clarence’s young daughter. Referred to as "Girl," she is married off to a commoner by Richard, a move designed to solidify his claim to the throne by diminishing her status and potential threat. Margaret’s situation highlights the manipulation of familial bonds and the exploitation of marriage as a political tool in the pursuit of power.

The Earl of Surrey

The Earl of Surrey, the Duke of Norfolk’s son, remains loyal to King Richard’s army until the end. His steadfast loyalty, even in the face of impending defeat, exemplifies the unwavering dedication of Richard’s supporters and the tragic consequences of their allegiance.

The Earl of Oxford

The Earl of Oxford, John De Vere, joins Richmond’s rebellion against Richard. His involvement in the rebellion signifies the gathering momentum of opposition against Richard, ultimately contributing to the successful overthrow of the tyrant. Oxford’s role reinforces the theme of resistance and the collective effort required to restore justice and order.

The Sheriff of Wiltshire

The Sheriff of Wiltshire escorts Buckingham to his execution. His role as an enforcer of Richard’s will underscores the systemic nature of Richard’s tyranny and the mechanisms of power that perpetuate his oppressive rule.

Tressel

Tressel, alongside Berkeley, attends Lady Anne during King Henry VI’s funeral procession. Although they have no speaking parts, their presence highlights the meager funeral services permitted for the late king and underscores the broader theme of forgotten loyalties and the fleeting nature of power and recognition.

Berkeley

Berkeley, alongside Tressel, serves Lady Anne during the funeral of King Henry VI. The silent and subdued nature of their roles emphasizes the lack of ceremony and honor afforded to the fallen king, reflecting the overarching atmosphere of disregard and neglect that characterizes the political climate.

Sir William Brandon

Sir William Brandon is a supporter of Richmond, appearing at the Battle of Bosworth Field. His presence at the decisive battle underscores the collective resolve and determination of Richmond’s forces to confront and dismantle Richard’s reign, symbolizing the turning tide of the conflict.

Sir James Blunt

Sir James Blunt, a noble supporter of Richmond, first appears as the two armies prepare for battle. His role represents the broader coalition of nobles and supporters rallying to Richmond’s cause, emphasizing the growing strength and unity of the opposition.

Sir Walter Herbert

Sir Walter Herbert, another supporter of Richmond, is seen as the armies advance toward Bosworth Field. His presence in the ranks of Richmond’s supporters further signifies the momentum and commitment of those who seek to restore order and justice.

Ghosts of Richard’s Victims

The ghosts of Richard’s victims, including King Henry VI and his son Edward, Prince of Wales, appear before both Richard and Richmond. These specters instill uncharacteristic fear in Richard while providing Richmond with inspirational encouragement. The haunting presence of these ghosts serves as a powerful reminder of Richard’s crimes and the inescapable consequences of his actions, reinforcing the play’s themes of guilt, retribution, and eventual justice.