Richard III (Penguin Monarchs)

This book delves into the complex legacy of Richard III, exploring his reign and the controversies surrounding his character and actions.

No English king has evoked such strong opinions as Richard III, both during his reign and in the centuries that followed. He was reviled in his own time, particularly for the alleged murder of his young nephews, the Princes in the Tower. This grim narrative, popularized by Shakespeare, paints Richard as a tyrant who died fighting against his own subjects. Yet, amidst the controversy, he also inspired fierce loyalty among his supporters, revealing the complexities of his character and reign.

In Richard III (Penguin Monarchs), Rosemary Horrox presents a balanced examination of a king who, by many accounts, was a failure as a monarch. His reign lasted just two years before he was killed without leaving an heir, marking the end of the House of York. This significant downfall allowed Henry Tudor to claim the throne, despite his weak claim. Horrox explores whether Richard's demise was due to his own ambitious nature or the dysfunction within the Yorkist dynasty that he sought to uphold.

Ultimately, Richard III (Penguin Monarchs) offers a nuanced portrait of a king whose efforts to defend his dynasty led to its destruction. This enlightening study invites readers to reconsider the legacy of a monarch often viewed through a lens of villainy, shedding light on the historical context that shaped his reign.