Qualities of character that en
Qualities of character that enShakespeare's Portrayal of Richard III exemplified
Through the Senecan Tyrant, the Vice Figure, and the Machiavel
To accomplish goals, in one's life, one must be determined and must have certain characteristics that avenge to one's aspirations. In the play Richard III, Richard III's goal is to ascend the throne. There are two ways that one can claim the throne: by birthright, or might. Since Richard III cannot claim the throne by right he must therefore take it by might. To accomplish this goal Richard, Duke of Gloucester, must be determined to achieve his goal at all costs. Also he must have the characteristics to meet his determination. Kings are generally thought to be beautiful, God-like humans from a certain genealogy. They are placed at the throne due to whom they were born to and/or who they marry. Richard is born of the royal family but, he does not possess the qualities of a King to be legitimate according to Shakespeare's Richard III.
In order to comprehend why such a high level of fear and insecurity can be brought about, a look at the upbringing and personal life of Richard should be brought into discussion. One of three brothers, Richard was in constant competition of who would succeed in gaining the throne of England. Richard, like his other brothers, wanted the title of king quite badly. As time pressed on, it seemed less likely that Richard would succeed in gaining the throne. His shrewd attitude and a physical deformity, that left him nearly paralyzed, were two of the many reasons why Richard would be kept of the throne. Richard quickly became aware of this and he therefore began his rampage to insure himself the throne. After killing off his brothers and many others, who were eligible to succeed, Richard finally became King of England. This title did not bring comfort, and Richard continued to kill anybody who posed a threat in keeping him from remaining king. Richard's reign as king lasted only two years, and during this two year period Richard was never once happy, thus showing how the unjust soul will never be happy. His insecurities and fears worsened as he gained more and more power.
The first scene of the play, Richard declares in a soliloquy, his plan to become king. In which he shows us for the first time a perfect example of the vice character. Richard clearly states that he is, "Deformed, Unfinished, and sent before my time./Into this breathing world scarce half made up"(1.1.19-20). As a villain Richard must be heartless, he cannot let his emotions interfere with his actions. Also he must be well organized and intelligent; a villain must know exactly how to act when the time calls for it. He must never let his emotions interfere with his actions. A...
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