Often when writing historical fiction, authors take creative liberties in their works. William Shakespeare was no different when he wrote his historical plays. In Shakespeare's English Kings, Peter Saccio discusses these discrepancies. During this essay, the degree of victimization of King Richard II will be explored. As Saccio points out, "Richard was the victim of multiple betrayals in Wales, while Shakespeare's Richard, although in a difficult position, is challenged by more honorable adversaries and accompanied by more loyal supporters" (Saccio 30). . The article will seek to answer the purpose of Shakespeare's alteration of history in Richard II and analyze how these changes affect the play. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay. First of all, it is important to point out the discrepancies, that is, to compare the real characters with Shakespeare's characters in light of their relationships with Richard. According to Saccio, Northumberland promises Richard at Conway that Bolingbroke will let him keep his crown and power in exchange for his rightful inheritance, but then ambushes the king upon his arrival (Saccio 29). Shakespeare uses Northumberland in his role as Bolingbroke's messenger; however, the playwright leaves the ambush completely aside. Instead, Richard willingly answers Bolingbroke's call, knowing that his reign as king is over. He said to his cousin Aumerle: “What should the king do now? Should he submit? / The king will. Should he be impeached? / The king will be pleased” (3.3.143 – 45). For all his loyalty to the play, the real Aumerle was a traitor. The king's cousin accompanied Richard II to Ireland, delayed his return and was the one who advised the division and disbandment of the army. After effectively diminishing Richard's forces, Aumerle went to Bolingbroke (Saccio 29). Additionally, one of the more peripheral characters, Thomas Percy, Northumberland's brother, never actually appears in Richard II. Rather, he is frequently referenced by other characters and is said to have defected to Bolingbroke after Northumberland was declared a traitor: "The Earl of Worcester / Broke his staff, resigned his stewardship, / And all the servants fled with him / At Bolingbroke” (2.2.58 – 61). In the story, Percy deserts Richard II at the same time as Aumerle (Saccio 30). Each of these changes was calculated to influence public perception of King Richard II. Shakespeare portrays Richard II as a florid and luxurious man, with an almost sinister undertone – it is strongly implied that he ordered the death of his uncle, the Duke. of Gloucester – and a penchant for making bad decisions. Throughout the play, Richard tends to rely not on himself, but on his contested divine right, which ultimately collapses. He attempts to force others to understand that his rule is sanctioned by God and promises divine punishment to those who betray him; However, even Richard has moments of doubt where he feels abandoned by God or that his divine rule is nonexistent. He laments: “Throw away respect, / Tradition, form and ceremonious duty; / For you have confused me all this time. / I live on bread like you, I feel need, I taste sorrow, / I need friends. Submitted thus, / How can you tell me that I am king? (3.2.172 – 77). It seems that the only one other than Richard to advocate the sanctity of God's chosen king is Carlisle. In both the story and the play he protests Bolingbroke's usurpation of the throne, although Shakespeare certainly added his theatricality, 2000.