18:38 Richard III

Day 18 of 38:38
Richard III

Throughout the history plays, we have seen prophecies, history speeches, and curses, but never so much as in Richard III. This play in inundated with curses, prophesies, and dreams. Not only do the characters curse and prophesy, but each time a statement comes true, the original curse is referred back to. We have Richard making up the prophecy about "G" in order to get his brother killed, but really this prophecy comes true, as Richard is the Duke of Gloucester. Margaret curses practically everyone, and as they die, one by one, they recall her words. Anne recalls the curse she spoke to Richard once she has become his miserable wife. All the ghosts curse Richard and bless Richmond, and Richmond is of course victorious.

Every curse and prophecy comes true in this play. Here we see the power of language, the language of truth. But the play also gives us the power of language as deception, as Richard puts on role after role in order to deceive those about him. Nearly every time, he is successful. Indeed, taking his speeches out of context, they are entirely noble, or romantic. It's only because we know who he is and what he is after that we can see through him. In this play, language is the ultimate weapon. It deceives, it woos, it kills, it manipulates, it persuades, it warns, it curses, it blesses.

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Favorite Female Character:
Margaret
Favorite Male Character:
Richard III

Laugh out loud:
2 Murderer Some certain dregs of conscience are yet within me.
1 Murderer Remember our reward when the deed's done.
2 Murderer Come, he dies.

"That's what she said!":
Mistress Shore!

How insulting:
Margaret Thou elvish-marked, abortive, rotting hog!

Shakey loves his meta:
Buckingham Tut! I can counterfeit the deep tragedian

Oh, misogyny:
Clarence Relent and save your souls.
1 Murderer Relent? 'Tis cowardly and womanish.

Buckingham Play the maid's part, still answer nay, and take it

Boys are silly:

Favorite Moment/Line:
Opening monologue
Now is the winter of our discontent...