Richard III · Chapter
Scene II explained
The Duchess of York comforts Clarence's children, who suspect their father's death.
What happens
The Duchess of York comforts Clarence's children, who suspect their father's death. Queen Elizabeth enters distraught over King Edward IV's death. The group mourns collectively. Gloucester, Buckingham, and others arrive; Gloucester feigns piety and seeks his mother's blessing. Buckingham proposes fetching the young prince with a small train to avoid conflict, and Gloucester agrees. Left alone, Buckingham and Gloucester plot to separate the queen's kindred from the prince.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This scene is the dramatic climax because it marks the psychological and emotional peak where Richmond transfo…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Deception and Manipulation
Gloucester feigns piety and grief while secretly plotting with Buckingham to seize power.
- Tyranny and Legitimacy
The debate over fetching the prince with a small train reflects concerns about legitimate succession and potential tyranny.
- Conscience and Guilt
The Duchess of York expresses shame over Gloucester's deceit, hinting at his moral corruption.
Characters to notice
- Duchess of York
Comforts Clarence's children and laments the deaths of her sons Edward and Clarence.
- Queen Elizabeth
Grieves the death of King Edward IV and fears for her children's future.
- George, Duke of Clarence
Mentioned as deceased; his children mourn him.
- King Edward IV
Recently died, causing widespread grief.
- King Richard III
Arrives feigning grief and piety; secretly plots with Buckingham.
- Duke of Buckingham
Proposes fetching the young prince with a small train; conspires with Gloucester.
- Earl Rivers
Supports Buckingham's plan to fetch the prince with a small train.
- Marquis of Dorset
Attempts to comfort Queen Elizabeth.
Key passages
“Oh, that deceit should steal such gentle shapes, And with a virtuous vizard hide foul guile!”
The Duchess laments that deception can wear a kind face and hide evil under a mask of virtue.
The Duchess sees through Gloucester's false piety.
“My other self, my counsel's consistory, My oracle, my prophet! My dear cousin, I, like a child, will go by thy direction.”
Gloucester calls Buckingham his other self and oracle, vowing to follow his lead like a child.
Gloucester reveals his dependence on Buckingham's plotting.
