Richard II: The Art of Kingship by Anthony Goodman (Professor of Medieval and Renaissance History, Professor of Medieval and Renaissance History, University of Edinburgh)
In this reassessment of Richard II, an outstanding group of international contributors re-evaluates the (frequently biased) evidence to create a new and rounded portrait of this fascinating and much maligned king. They investigate Richard's contemporary reputation and key aspects of his policies, covering topics which include: the conventions of co-operation between kings and communities; discourse on the nature and purpose of rule; monarchy as spectacle; the cultural expression of royal personality; and the fiscal basis of government. They highlight the seriousness of the problems affecting the exercise of kingship, and show how the traditional and innovative panaceas attempted by a conventionally-minded prince resulted in his downfall. It is a study which repositions the reign within he evolution of English kingship.