# Scene III explained — Richard III

> Chapter companion for Richard III by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Three citizens discuss the death of King Edward IV and express fears about the future, particularly the dangers of a child king and the ambitions of the Duke of Gloucester and the queen's relatives.

## Themes in this chapter

### Fate and Prophecy

The third citizen speaks of a 'divine instinct' and natural signs (clouds, falling leaves, swelling waters) that portend coming troubles, suggesting an inevitable, fated upheaval.

### Tyranny and Legitimacy

The citizens debate the legitimacy of a child king and the dangers of ambitious nobles like Gloucester, foreshadowing the tyranny that may arise from contested rule.

## Character check-ins

### King Edward IV

Reported dead, his passing sparks anxiety about the realm's stability.

### King Richard III

Mentioned as the Duke of Gloucester, described as full of danger.

### Prince Edward (Edward V)

The child heir whose reign is anticipated with concern.

### Queen Elizabeth

Her sons and brothers are noted as haughty and proud, contributing to the political tension.

## Key lines

> Ay, that the king is dead.

Yes, the king has died.

_First Citizen confirms the news of King Edward IV's death._

> Woe to the land that's govern'd by a child!

Disaster awaits a country ruled by a child.

_Third Citizen expresses the common fear of a child monarch._

> O, full of danger is the Duke of Gloucester!

Oh, the Duke of Gloucester is extremely dangerous!

_Third Citizen warns of Richard's threatening nature._

> When clouds appear, wise men put on their cloaks; When great leaves fall, the winter is at hand; When the sun sets, who doth not look for night?

Wise people prepare for trouble when they see signs of it, just as they prepare for rain, winter, or night.

_Third Citizen uses natural metaphors to argue that the signs of political trouble are clear and should be heeded._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/richard_iii_se/chapters/act-ii-scene-iii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/richard_iii_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/richard_iii_se/chapters