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Politics In King Henry

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Politics is a critical element of Richard II, and it is a guiding force of King Henry when he makes the decision to banish Exton. Appearances are crucial to any politicians, but particularly to a new king, such as Henry, who overthrew the last king in a military coup. King Henry shows a great understanding of himself and politics and is a better ruler than Richard because of that knowledge. King Henry has to solidify his rule, authority and power, and he has to do it quickly. A new king, one who gained power by force, cannot allow the murderer of the previous king to remain unpunished. Not punishing Exton for his murder of the king, however, desired that outcome, may have been, would be political suicide for Henry. Earlier in the play, Henry demonstrates his understanding of politics and the importance having the favor of the common people by wooing the crowd as he leaves England …show more content…

His ability to see himself and his actions in others, is his reason for pardoning Aumerle. Further, Henry had promised to pardon Aumerle before he learned of the crime, which could also be a factor. But largely, Henry saw himself in Aumerle later on. Knowing that he had committed the same crime in his conquest for power. “I pardon him as God shall pardon me” (5.3.130), He acknowledges his crime here, and speaks to God pardoning him, for the same crime Aumerle committed. Based on these actions, King Henry’s rule compares to King Richard’s in several ways. Politically, King Henry was more talented, understanding the people and the nature of politics better. However, a comparison of their morals, creates an equation that is equal. Both King Henry and King Richard display the same hypocrisy of banishing someone who was loyal to them, and further, banishing for a crime that the kings asked them to do. King Henry does appear to be more aware of his crimes, as he pardons Aumerle. Whereas, Richard treats more, as a matter of

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