Richard III · Chapter
Scene VII explained
Buckingham reports to Richard that the citizens are reluctant to acclaim him king.
What happens
Buckingham reports to Richard that the citizens are reluctant to acclaim him king. They stage a public scene at Baynard's Castle where Richard appears between two bishops, feigning piety and reluctance before accepting the crown under pressure from Buckingham and the mayor.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Manipulation
Richard and Buckingham stage a false show of piety and reluctance to manipulate public perception and secure the throne.
Ambition and Power
Richard's calculated performance of humility masks his ruthless ambition to seize the crown.
Tyranny and Legitimacy
Buckingham argues that Edward IV's children are illegitimate, framing Richard's usurpation as a restoration of rightful rule.
Characters to notice
- King Richard III
Feigns religious devotion and reluctance to accept the crown, ultimately yielding to Buckingham's orchestrated plea.
- Duke of Buckingham
Orchestrates the public spectacle, coaching Richard to appear holy and reluctant, and persuades the mayor and citizens to demand Richard's kingship.
- Sir William Catesby
Acts as messenger between Buckingham and Richard during the staged encounter.
- Lord Mayor of London
Leads the citizens to Baynard's Castle and entreats Richard to accept the crown.
Key passages
“The citizens are mum and speak not a word.”
The citizens are silent and refuse to respond.
Buckingham reports the public's unwillingness to endorse Richard.
“Play the maid's part, still answer nay, and take it.”
Act coy like a maiden, refuse at first, but then accept.
Buckingham instructs Richard to feign reluctance before accepting the crown.
“I am not made of stones, But penetrable to your kind entreats, Albeit against my conscience and my soul.”
I am not unfeeling; I am moved by your pleas, even though it goes against my conscience.
Richard pretends to be reluctantly persuaded by the citizens' request.