The Mythology of Richard III - Separating Fact from Fiction

Richard III, the King of England from 1483 until his death in 1485, has long been the center of intrigue and controversy. His reign marked the end of the Plantagenet dynasty and the beginning of the Tudor dynasty, as well as one of the most contentious periods in British history. Throughout the years, myths and legends have surrounded Richard III, making it difficult to distinguish between fact and fiction. In this article, we aim to debunk some of the most popular myths surrounding this enigmatic monarch.

The Wicked Hunchback

One of the most enduring myths about Richard III is that he was a wicked and deformed hunchback. This perception can be traced back to William Shakespeare's play "Richard III," in which the character is portrayed as a hunchback with a withered arm. However, contemporary accounts describe Richard as being of average height with no physical deformities. Many historians believe that Shakespeare's portrayal was a deliberate exaggeration to serve the political interests of his time.

Recent scientific research has provided further evidence dispelling the hunchback myth. In 2012, Richard III's remains were discovered beneath a parking lot in Leicester, England. The subsequent analysis revealed that while he did have a slight curvature of the spine, he certainly was not a hunchback. This development has shifted the narrative and challenged the long-held assumptions about his physical appearance.

The Mythology of Richard III

by John Ashdown-Hill (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7096 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

FREE

The Murderous Uncle

Another popular myth surrounding Richard III is that he murdered his nephews, the "Princes in the Tower." Edward V and Richard, Duke of York, mysteriously disappeared in 1483, leading many to speculate that Richard III was responsible for their deaths. This belief was perpetuated by Tudor propagandists, who sought to discredit Richard's reign.

However, no concrete evidence linking Richard III to the Princes' deaths has ever been found. In fact, some argue that it was more advantageous for Henry VII, Richard's successor, to eliminate the potential threats to his own claim to the throne. Nevertheless, the mystery surrounding the fate of the Princes in the Tower continues to captivate the imagination of historians and the general public alike.

The Villainous King

Richard III is often depicted as a ruthless and power-hungry tyrant. This perception may have been shaped by his depiction in contemporary sources, particularly those associated with the Tudor dynasty. However, many historians now believe that Richard III's reputation as a villain was part of a deliberate propaganda campaign to solidify Henry VII's rule.

Recent historical research has shed new light on Richard III's character. While he was undoubtedly embroiled in the bloody struggles of his time, some argue that he also initiated progressive social reforms and aimed to improve the legal system. These claims challenge the traditional narrative of Richard III as a solely malevolent figure and present a more nuanced understanding of his reign.

The Battle of Bosworth Field

The Battle of Bosworth Field, fought on August 22, 1485, was a pivotal event in English history. It marked the end of the Plantagenet dynasty and the beginning of the Tudor era. Richard III famously died in this battle, which led to the ascent of Henry VII to the throne.

For centuries, there has been much speculation about the details surrounding Richard III's death, including the location of his final resting place. The discovery of his remains in 2012 provided valuable insights into the events that unfolded at Bosworth Field. The analysis of his skeletal remains indicated several injuries, implying that Richard III fought valiantly until his death.

The Legacy of Richard III

Richard III's legacy has been marred by myths and legends. Even after his death, the rumors and misconceptions surrounding him continued to shape public opinion. However, thanks to advancements in historical research and scientific analysis, we now have a better understanding of the true Richard III.

While his reign was short-lived, Richard III left a lasting impact on British history. His death at the Battle of Bosworth Field marked the end of the Plantagenet dynasty and the beginning of the Tudor dynasty, bringing significant changes to the political landscape of England. By unraveling the mythology surrounding Richard III, we can gain a more accurate understanding of this complex figure and the enduring legacy he left behind.

The Mythology of Richard III

by John Ashdown-Hill (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7096 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

FREE

Richard III. The name will conjure an image for any reader. Shakespeare's hunchback tyrant who killed his own nephews or a long-denigrated, misunderstood king. This one man's character and actions have divided historians and the controversy has always kept interest in Richard alive. However, curiosity surrounding his life and death has reached unprecedented heights in the aftermath of the discovery of his skeleton under a Leicester car park. The myths that have always swirled around Richard III have risen and multiplied and it is time to set the record straight. John Ashdown-Hill, whose research was instrumental in the discovery of Richard III's remains, explores and unravels the web of myths in this fascinating book.