In Shakespeare's 'Richard III' how does Richard III manipulate those around him?

Richard III is power hungry and his need for power is his driving factor in his actions. He manipulates the people around him to get what he wants using flattery, persuasion etc. Even in the beginning of the play and he delivers his opening monologue we can see that he is setting forth the actions of the play in Act 1, Scene 1 – even outside of the action his words direct how other characters are acting. To gain Lady Anne’s hand in marriage he blames her beauty the reason for her late husband’s death in Act 1, Scene 2. She knows it was Richard who killed him. Richard then places the blame from himself onto her, leaving her guilty and placing less anger on Richard but instead on herself. He convinces Anne over her husband’s dead body to marry him, showing to what extent he can prove his own power over her. We can see how language is used well to express fear and worry in other characters too. We can see another instance where Richard uses his skills of manipulation on himself, in Act 4, Scene 2. He rationalises and justifies his murderous desire (brought upon by his hunger for power) to himself. He falls victim to his own trap. He manages to manipulate himself into murder, making the reader question is he incredibly strong willed or incredibly weak willed?

Related English Literature A Level answers

All answers ▸

How should I go about analysing an unseen text?


"I am no bird; and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will". In light of this quotation, explore the representation of women in Jane Eyre.


'Love which appears too perfect often ends in tragedy'. In light of this statement, examine how Shakespeare presents the love between Othello and Desdemona in the play.


Discuss the ways in which John Osborne presents frustration among his characters in 'Look Back in Anger'.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences