Richard II: The Art of Kingship Anthony Goodman (Professor of Medieval and Renaissance History, Professor of Medieval and Renaissance History, University of Edinburgh)
The re-assessment of the character and practice of medieval kingship is a lively academic subject. In the context of the later Middle Ages, interest has been focused on aspects of the subject such as discourse on the nature and purpose of rule, the conventions of co-operation between kings and communities, monarchy as spectacle, cultural expression of royal personality, and the fiscal basis of government. These are among the subject areas emphasised by the contributors to this re-assessment of Richard II. The contributors produce a rounded picture of his personality and rule by examining his contemporary reputation and key aspects of his policies. This study highlights the seriousness of the convergent problems affecting the exercise and of English kingship, and illuminates why the traditional and innovative panaceas attempted by a conventionally-minded prince resulted in his downfall. It is a study which positions the reign within the evolution of English kinship.