Scene V explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Deception and Manipulation

  Derby's secret communication with Richmond while outwardly loyal to Richard highlights the political manipulation and hidden alliances at play.

• Tyranny and Legitimacy

  Richard's hostage-taking of George Stanley exemplifies his tyrannical rule, while the alliance forming around Richmond seeks to establish a new legitimate order.

Characters to notice

• Lord Stanley

  Sends a message to Richmond via Urswick, explaining that his son George Stanley is held hostage by Richard, which prevents him from providing immediate aid.

• Christopher Urswick

  Acts as messenger between Derby and Richmond, reporting on Richmond's location and the nobles gathering to his cause.

• Henry Tudor, Earl of Richmond

  Mentioned as being in Wales, gathering a large army of supporters including Sir Walter Herbert, Sir Gilbert Talbot, Sir William Stanley, Oxford, Pembroke, Sir James Blunt, and Rice ap Thomas.

• Queen Elizabeth

  Reported to have heartily consented to Richmond marrying her daughter Elizabeth, indicating her support for Richmond's claim.

• George Stanley

  Derby's son, held hostage by Richard in the 'sty of this most bloody boar,' which restrains Derby from openly revolting.

Key passages

• “That in the sty of this most bloody boar My son George Stanley is frank’d up in hold: If I revolt, off goes young George’s head;”

  My son George Stanley is imprisoned by the bloody boar (Richard); if I rebel, my son will be executed.

  Derby explains his constrained position due to Richard holding his son hostage.

• “Tell him the queen hath heartily consented He shall espouse Elizabeth her daughter.”

  Inform Richmond that Queen Elizabeth has gladly agreed to his marriage to her daughter Elizabeth.

  Derby reveals the crucial political alliance through marriage that will unite the houses.