Chronologically speaking, Richard II is the play that kick-starts Shakespeare's cycle of royal histories. It is also notable for its powerful, introspective speeches, which resonate almost like arias, melancholy and autumnal. This program highlights the dissection, rehearsal, and performance of just such a passage-Act IV, Scene 1, in which the protagonist unwillingly but inevitably hands the crown to the newly ascended Henry IV. British students enact the scene under the auspices of theatrical professionals, then take part in a roundtable on a range of issues. Among these are intriguing notions about Richard's feminine side.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on March 03, 2011. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

Shakespeare's Globe, London: Introduction to Shakespeare (1:00) -- "Richard II": Commentary and Summary (3:53) -- "Richard II": Rehearsal, Act IV, Scene 1 (1:43) -- "Richard II": Performance, Act IV, Scene 1 (4:28) -- Discussion of "Richard II" (2:54) -- Credits: "Richard II": Young Actors in Training (1:00).