# Duchess of Gloucester — Richard II character guide

> Duchess of Gloucester in Richard II by William Shakespeare.

**Role:** minor

**Also known as:** Duchess, Duchess Alack, Duchess Nay

**First appearance:** 0003-act-i-scene-ii

## Who they are

Widow of Thomas of Gloucester, who urges Gaunt to avenge her husband's murder.

## Relationships

### [King Richard II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/richard_ii_se/characters/king_richard_ii)

_rivalry_

The Duchess bitterly blames King Richard for her husband's murder, fueling a vengeful animosity.

### [King Richard II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/richard_ii_se/characters/king_richard_ii)

_rivalry_

The Duchess bitterly blames King Richard for her husband's murder, fueling a vengeful animosity.

### [King Richard II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/richard_ii_se/characters/king_richard_ii)

_rivalry_

The Duchess bitterly blames King Richard for her husband's murder, fueling a vengeful animosity.

## In the story

### [Scene II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/richard_ii_se/chapters/act-i-scene-ii)

Passionately urges Gaunt to avenge her husband's death, but ultimately resigns herself to sorrow and isolation.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/richard_ii_se/characters/duchess_of_gloucester
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/richard_ii_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/richard_ii_se/characters