Monologue

Buckingham Monologue from Richard III

From Richard III by William Shakespeare

male · dramatic · 1:16 min

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No, so God help me, they spake not a word, But, like dumb statues or breathing stones, Stared each on other, and looked deadly pale. Which when I saw, I reprehended them, And asked the Mayor what meant this wilful silence. His answer was, the people were not used To be spoke to but by the Recorder. Then he was urged to tell my tale again: “Thus saith the Duke, thus hath the Duke inferred” But nothing spoke in warrant from himself. When he had done, some followers of mine own, At lower end of the hall, hurled up their caps, And some ten voices cried, “God save King Richard!” And thus I took the vantage of those few. “Thanks, gentle citizens and friends,” quoth I; “This general applause and cheerful shout Argues your wisdoms and your love to Richard.” And even here brake off and came away.

About this piece

Buckingham addresses the citizens after a tense silence, attempting to rally support for King Richard amidst an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear.

30s · anticipation · power · identity · betrayal · ambition

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