# Scene IV explained — Richard II

> Chapter companion for Richard II by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Sir Pierce of Exton, recalling King Henry IV's words about ridding himself of a 'living fear,' interprets them as a command to kill the imprisoned Richard II. He resolves to act as the king's friend and eliminate Richard.

## Themes in this chapter

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Exton claims to be the king's friend while plotting the murder of the former king, blurring loyalty and betrayal.

### Language and Power

Henry's ambiguous words are seized upon by Exton as a warrant for assassination, showing how language can be wielded to justify violence.

## Character check-ins

### Sir Pierce of Exton

Interprets King Henry's words as a command to murder Richard II.

### Keeper

Servant who confirms the king's words to Exton.

## Key lines

> Have I no friend will rid me of this living fear?

Is there no one loyal to me who will eliminate this ongoing threat?

_Exton recalls Henry's words as a veiled command to kill Richard._

> I am the king's friend, and will rid his foe.

I am loyal to the king, so I will remove his enemy.

_Exton justifies his plan to murder Richard as an act of friendship to Henry._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/richard_ii_se/chapters/act-v-scene-iv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/richard_ii_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/richard_ii_se/chapters