Richard III, born Richard Plantagenet on October 2, 1452, in Fotheringay Castle, Northamptonshire, England, was the last king of the House of York and the Plantagenet dynasty. He ascended to the throne in 1483 after a controversial rise during the Wars of the Roses and ruled until his defeat and death at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485. Known for his short, tumultuous reign and complex legacy, Richard III is often portrayed as a figure of ambition, intrigue, and tragedy. His quotes, primarily drawn from historical records, letters, and William Shakespeare’s influential play “Richard III,” provide glimpses into his thoughts on life, power, and mortality. In this compilation, we present 15 quotes attributed to him that explore themes of life, sourced from literary and historical accounts for authenticity and insight.
15 Richard III of England Quotes
1. “Now is the winter of our discontent made glorious summer by this sun of York.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
2. “I am determined to prove a villain and hate the idle pleasures of these days.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
3. “Conscience is but a word that cowards use, devised at first to keep the strong in awe.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
4. “Why, I can smile, and murder whiles I smile.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
5. “The world is grown so bad that wrens make prey where eagles dare not perch.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
6. “I have set my life upon a cast, and I will stand the hazard of the die.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
7. “A horse! a horse! my kingdom for a horse!” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
8. “Think you, but that I know our state secure?” (Historical letter, Richard III to the Earl of Desmond, 1484)
9. “In peace there’s nothing so becomes a man as modest stillness and humility.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
10. “The trust I have is in mine innocence, and therefore am I bold and resolute.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
11. “O coward conscience, how dost thou afflict me!” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
12. “Life is as tedious as a twice-told tale vexing the dull ear of a drowsy man.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
13. “I am in so far in blood that sin will pluck on sin.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
14. “The king’s name is a tower of strength.” (Play, “Richard III” by William Shakespeare, 1592)
15. “Death comes to all, but greatness lives in memory.” (Historical chronicle, attributed in “The History of King Richard III” by Thomas More, n.d.)
These quotes from Richard III offer a window into his introspective and often turbulent worldview, highlighting themes of ambition, morality, and the fragility of life. They reveal a man shaped by power struggles and personal demons, providing timeless reflections on human existence. What do these words say to you about life’s challenges? Share your insights in the comments below and join the conversation.