The Hollow Crown: Richard II

The reigning king whose indecisive leadership triggers a cascade of rivalries. He banishes Bolingbroke after a dispute, contemplates seizing assets, and ultimately abdicates in favor of Bolingbroke. His authority erodes as rebellion grows, and he is eventually captured and killed, underscoring the fragility of kingship.

An elder statesman who chastises the king for nearly selling England’s lands for money. He counsels prudence and loyalty, but illness and death soon close his chapter. His passing accelerates the drive to seize assets and reshape the realm.

Ambitious and politically adept, he returns from banishment to claim the throne. He wins support, negotiates terms with the king, and ultimately becomes Henry IV after deposing Richard. His rise reshapes England and tests his ability to govern a fractious realm.

A senior noble torn between loyalty to the crown and his own family’s interests. He seeks to mediate rather than plunge the realm into another civil conflict, and ultimately adjusts his stance as events unfold.

York’s son, a young noble caught between duty and ambition. He becomes entangled in political plots aimed at destabilizing Henry IV’s rule, then seeks forgiveness as the crisis deepens.

A veteran noble who scrutinizes Richard’s governance and later aligns with Bolingbroke. He plays a pivotal role in rallying forces and weighing the crown’s legitimacy against rebellion.

York’s wife, a figure of aristocratic concern who urges mercy and caution. She negotiates for her family’s safety and for the realm’s stability in the face of upheaval.

A religious figure who participates in the political maneuvering surrounding the crown. Heicalins and plots with other clergy to safeguard or influence the succession.

The king’s consort who witnesses the deposition with horror and fear. She anticipates upheaval, plots possible flight, and endures the collapse of royal favor.