Shakespeare, Richard II, and the Essex Rebellion

Like so many things, playmaking in Elizabethan England was more than it appeared. History plays could promote the message of the Queen’s reign and Tudor dynasty. But Shakespeare was more interested in breaking down leadership and all the expectations people had of leaders. 

In Richard II, Shakespeare pulls the curtain back on Richard’s thinking. He brings us right into Richard’s mind and heart. We hear Richard speak from his heart. Shakespeare gives Richard some of the most poetic speeches in any his plays. Some of the things Richard says about his worth, his identify, his value in the world are heart-breaking because they ring true for all of us.

Supporters of the Essex rebellion arranged for a special playing of Richard II in hopes of stirring up support for their cause. This performance included a censored scene--the one where Richard gives up his crown. The Queen herself recognized the power of the image of replacing an unpopular monarch, declaring, "I am Richard II; know ye not that?"

Richard II was censored because theatre is so powerful. Censorship attempts to silence voices with messages that challenge those in power. It happened in Shakespeare’s time, and it happens today. The story of Richard II and the Earl of Essex reminds us that art is powerful enough to be silenced, which means it is powerful enough it must be heard.

History shows us what's possible.