Monologue

Northumberland Monologue from Richard II

From Richard II by William Shakespeare

male · dramatic · 1:14 min

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The King of Heaven forbid our lord the King Should so with civil and uncivil arms Be rushed upon! Thy thrice-noble cousin, Harry Bolingbroke, doth humbly kiss thy hand; And by the honourable tomb he swears That stands upon your royal grandsire’s bones, And by the royalties of both your bloods, Currents that spring from one most gracious head, And by the buried hand of warlike Gaunt, And by the worth and honour of himself, Comprising all that may be sworn or said, His coming hither hath no further scope Than for his lineal royalties, and to beg Enfranchisement immediate on his knees; Which on thy royal party granted once, His glittering arms he will commend to rust, His barbed steeds to stables, and his heart To faithful service of your Majesty. This swears he, as he is a prince and just; And as I am a gentleman I credit him.

About this piece

Northumberland appeals to the King on behalf of Harry Bolingbroke, emphasizing loyalty and honor while seeking reconciliation in a tense political climate.

40s · trust · honor · power · loyalty · family

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