”History”

__The History behind Richard the Third. __ The play __Richard III__, takes place during the last year of Richard's life. Since it is a play, Shakepeare shortened all events to seem as if they all occured during 1484~1485, however, the actual events actually occured during 1471~1485, if counting from Edward IV's reign. While the play goes on, in the background, the War of the Roses is quietly taking place. During the play, Richard mentions about battles between the Yorks and the Lancasters during his conversasions. Therefore, it is important to know about the War of the Roses since it one of the main issues in the play. It was actually Richard's father who had a conflict with Henry VI, which became one of the major causes behind the war. This occured close to the time that Richard was born and the War of the Roses started shortly after. Also, since the War of the Roses ends shortly after Richard is killed by Henry, it can be said that Richard was always somewhat in connection with the War. Therefore, because of the state of each family, it can also be seen how Richard has a natural dislike for the Lancaster family.

__Other main events that occur in Europe during 1470 ~ 1485. __ 1471 - Edward IV kills Edward of Lancaster. 1472 - Richard III and Anne Neville marry. 1473 - A man named William Caxton produced the first book to be printed in English, __Recuyell of the Historyes of Troye__. 1479 - Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile establish the Catholic Monarchy of Spain. 1483 - Richard III becomes the King of England.

For a more detailed timeline on the dates of events during Richard III, scroll down to check [|here].

By Shion