Richard III is one of the most controversial figures in British history, seen by some as a ruthless murderer and by others as an effective leader, and the innocent victim of Tudor propaganda. Richard is also one of the many Kings and Queens directly associated with Tutbury Castle. The last English king to be killed in battle, his death at the battle of Bosworth in 1485 has often been viewed as the end of the Middle Ages, and the beginning of the Modern period. In this dramatic costumed performance by Dr Gareth Williams, Richard looks back on his life and achievements through a sleepless night before the battle of Bosworth, unsure of what the next day will bring...
King Richard III was a central figure in the history of England, known for his brief and tumultuous reign from 1483 to 1485. Born on October 2nd, 1452, Richard was the youngest son of Richard, Duke of York, and a member of the prominent House of York during the Wars of the Roses.
Richard's rise to power came after the death of his brother Edward IV. As the Lord Protector for his nephew, Edward V, Richard took the controversial step of declaring his young nephew illegitimate and claimed the throne for himself. This event is famously known as the "Princes in the
Tower" mystery, as the fate of the two young princes, Edward V and his brother Richard, remains unclear.
Richard III's reign was marked by internal conflicts and opposition from other noble houses, most notably the Lancastrians. His most notorious act was the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, where he was defeated by Henry Tudor, later known as King Henry VII. Richard was the last English monarch to die in battle.
Richard III's reputation has been heavily influenced by Shakespeare's play "Richard III," in which he is depicted as a villainous and power-hungry monarch. However, in recent years, there has been a re- evaluation of his legacy, with scholars and historians challenging the traditional portrayal. Efforts have been made to separate history from fiction and provide a more nuanced understanding of Richard III's character and reign.
In 2012, Richard's remains were discovered in a car park in Leicester,
England, and he was reburied in Leicester Cathedral in 2015. The discovery sparked renewed interest in his life and reign, prompting further research and investigations into the events of the Wars of the Roses and Richard's role in them. King Richard III remains a fascinating and controversial figure in English history, inspiring ongoing debate and exploration.
This event takes place on Wednesday 11th October. On arrival at Tutbury Castle you will enjoy a glass of Prosecco in their pretty Tea Rooms before the performance begins in the Great Hall.
Tickets are £16.50 per person and must be bought in advance.
If you have any questions, please call Tutbury Castle office on 01283 812129 or email bookings@tutburycastle.com