Richard II · Chapter
Scene III explained
Bolingbroke, with Northumberland and his forces, meets young Harry Percy and the Lords Ross and Willoughby.
What happens
Bolingbroke, with Northumberland and his forces, meets young Harry Percy and the Lords Ross and Willoughby. The Duke of York confronts Bolingbroke for returning from banishment in arms, but Bolingbroke argues he comes only to claim his rightful inheritance as Duke of Lancaster. York, though sympathetic, refuses to support rebellion and declares himself neutral, though he eventually agrees to accompany Bolingbroke to Bristol to confront Bushy and Bagot.
Themes in this chapter
Legitimacy and Usurpation
Bolingbroke argues he returns only for his lawful inheritance, while York accuses him of rebellion, highlighting the tension between legal right and armed force.
Loyalty and Betrayal
York struggles between his loyalty to the king and his sympathy for Bolingbroke's wrongs, ultimately choosing neutrality.
Order and Chaos
Bolingbroke's armed return threatens the established order, as York laments the breakdown of lawful authority.
Characters to notice
- Henry Bolingbroke
Returns from banishment, claims his inheritance as Duke of Lancaster, and persuades York to join him against Bushy and Bagot.
- Duke of York
Confronts Bolingbroke for his rebellion but, feeling powerless, declares himself neutral and eventually agrees to go to Bristol.
- Earl of Northumberland
Accompanies Bolingbroke, introduces his son Harry Percy, and supports Bolingbroke's claim.
- Henry Percy
Young Harry Percy meets Bolingbroke for the first time and offers his service.
- Lord Ross
Arrives with Willoughby to join Bolingbroke, expressing support for his cause.
- Lord Willoughby
Arrives with Ross to join Bolingbroke, affirming his loyalty.
- Earl of Berkeley
Delivers a message from the Duke of York to Bolingbroke, then witnesses the confrontation.
Key passages
“Show me thy humble heart, and not thy knee, Whose duty is deceiveable and false.”
Prove your loyalty through genuine humility, not through empty gestures of submission.
York rebukes Bolingbroke's kneeling, accusing him of feigned respect.
“I am no traitor's uncle; and that word 'grace.' In an ungracious mouth is but profane.”
Do not call me 'uncle' or speak of 'grace,' for those words are meaningless coming from a rebel.
York refuses to acknowledge kinship with Bolingbroke due to his treason.
“As I was banish'd, I was banish'd Hereford; But as I come, I come for Lancaster.”
I was banished as the Duke of Hereford, but I return to claim my title as Duke of Lancaster.
Bolingbroke distinguishes his banishment from his inherited right.
“I do remain as neuter. So, fare you well; Unless you please to enter in the castle And there repose you for this night.”
I will stay neutral. Goodbye, unless you wish to rest in the castle tonight.
York declares his neutrality but offers hospitality.