# Scene I explained — Richard III

> Chapter companion for Richard III by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Buckingham is led to execution by the Sheriff. He reflects on the fates of those who have died before him—Hastings, Edward's children, Rivers, Grey, King Henry VI, Prince Edward, and Vaughan—all victims of foul injustice. He recognizes that this day, All-Souls' Day, is his doomsday, a fulfillment of his own wish made in King Edward's time to fall by the false faith of the one he trusted most. He acknowledges that Margaret's curse has now fallen upon him, and he resigns himself to the block of shame.

## Themes in this chapter

### Revenge and Justice

Buckingham sees his execution as divine retribution and the fulfillment of Margaret's curse, illustrating the theme of cosmic justice.

### Deception and Manipulation

Buckingham reflects on being betrayed by the one he trusted most, highlighting the pervasive deceit in the court.

### Fate and Prophecy

Buckingham acknowledges that Margaret's curse has come to pass, reinforcing the idea of inescapable fate.

## Character check-ins

### Duke of Buckingham

Led to execution, reflects on his downfall and the fulfillment of Margaret's curse.

### Queen Margaret

Her curse is recalled by Buckingham as having come true.

### Lord Hastings

Mentioned among those who have miscarried by foul injustice.

### Earl Rivers

Mentioned among those who have miscarried by foul injustice.

### Lord Grey

Mentioned among those who have miscarried by foul injustice.

### King Henry VI

Mentioned among those who have miscarried by foul injustice.

## Key lines

> Will not King Richard let me speak with him?

Buckingham asks if King Richard will grant him an audience before his death.

_Buckingham's final plea for communication with Richard._

> Now Margaret's curse is fallen upon my head;

Buckingham declares that Queen Margaret's prophecy of doom has now come true for him.

_Buckingham acknowledges the fulfillment of Margaret's curse._

> Wrong hath but wrong, and blame the due of blame.

Injustice only begets further injustice, and blame is met with deserved blame.

_Buckingham's final reflection on the cycle of wrongdoing._

## Links

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