Book · 2015 · Drama
Richard II
History by William Shakespeare
Why people recommend it
Richard II by William Shakespeare is a historical drama that chronicles the dramatic downfall, deposition, and tragic psychological unraveling of the titular English monarch. The play was highlighted on episodes of How I Write during discussions centered around writing practices, research, and rhetorical devices. Tyler Cowen mentioned the work during an interview, sharing that he had recently reread the wonderful Shakespearean play as part of his personal pleasure reading and ongoing research process. In a separate episode, the host of How I Write also brought up Richard II to illustrate a specific rhetorical formula known as a diacap, referencing a famous line from the play where a desperate king cries out for a horse in exchange for his kingdom. These mentions demonstrate the enduring relevance of Shakespeare's historical tragedies not only as foundational works of dramatic literature, but also as rich texts for modern writers, intellectuals, and researchers analyzing complex character motivations, political power dynamics, and the powerful mechanics of classical rhetoric and poetic expression.
Who recommended it
- Tyler Cowen Discussed
Tyler Cowen — 1 mention
“So I reread Shakespeare's Richard II which is a [clears throat] wonderful play.”
Mentioned on the show without a named speaker — 1
“and in that case it's a horse a horse my kingdom for a horse in Richard theii”