The authoritative edition of Richard II from The Folger Shakespeare Library,the trusted and widely used Shakespeare series for students and general readers. ShakespeareΓÇÖs Richard II presents a momentous struggle between Richard II and his cousin Henry Bolingbroke. Richard is the legitimate king; he succeeded his grandfatherKing Edward IIIafter the earlier death of his father Edwardthe Black Prince. Yet Richard is also seen by many as a tyrant. He toys with his subjectsexiling Bolingbroke for six years. When he seizes the title and property that should be BolingbrokeΓÇÖsRichard threatens the very structure of the kingdom. Bolingbroke returns with an army that is supported by nobles and commoners alikeboth believing themselves oppressed by Richard. This sets the stage for a confrontation between his army and the tradition of sacred kingship supporting the isolated but now more sympathetic Richard. This edition includes: -Freshly edited text based on the best early printed version of the play -Full explanatory notes conveniently placed on pages facing the text of the play -Scene-by-scene plot summaries -A key to the playΓÇÖs famous lines and phrases -An introduction to reading ShakespeareΓÇÖs language -An essay by a leading Shakespeare scholar providing a modern perspective on the play -Fresh images from the Folger Shakespeare LibraryΓÇÖs vast holdings of rare books -An annotated guide to further reading Essay by Harry BergerJr. The Folger Shakespeare Library in WashingtonDCis home to the worldΓÇÖs largest collection of ShakespeareΓÇÖs printed worksand a magnet for Shakespeare scholars from around the globe. In addition to exhibitions open to the public throughout the yearthe Folger offers a full calendar of performances and programs. For more informationvisit Folger.edu.