The play Richard II by William Shakespeare is about a King who failed to perform his duties as King. Shakespeare illustrates the need for a change in the mode of power from that which privileges inheritance to that which values competency. A rule by inheritance is depicted through King Richard, whereas a rule by competency is illustrated by Henry Bolingbroke. The play Richard II is an allegory to the reign of Queen Elizabeth I and her controversial reign of power in England. She, like Richard, was seen to be very unsuccessful. Richard II shows how power play is operating in...
away my balm, With mine own hands I wash away my crown, With mine own tongue deny my sacred state, With mine own breath release all duteous oaths'Act Four, Scene One, Richard acknowledges his mistakes and abusive ways and he acknowledges, finally, that nothing can cleanse him of his sins.

Richard II by William Shakespeare shows the downfall of a King who was too self-absorbed to run his country well. However King Henry, the newly anointed King was motivated to help his country. The power-play in the Royal court reflected these attitudes, Richard II finally being deposed.