Richard III: The Maligned King

Although King Richard III of England from 1483 to 1485 made good laws that protect ordinary people today, his fictional portrayal as a hunchback by Shakespeare has dominated historical narratives. Annette Carson's book seeks to redress the balance by examining the events of his reign based on original sources and documentary evidence, challenging traditional narratives and investigating controversial areas. Carson's involvement in the Looking For Richard Project and Missing Princes Project has contributed to her revelatory extra chapter.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 14 December 2023
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

Richard III, the King of England from 1483 to 1485, left a lasting legacy with his enactment of fair laws that continue to safeguard the interests of ordinary people even today. However, the historical narrative has largely focused on the fictional portrayal of the king as portrayed by Shakespeare, depicting him as a wicked uncle who stole the throne and treacherously murdered his nephews in the Tower of London.

Over the years, there have been persistent voices, some of them esteemed and scholarly, advocating for a more balanced and rational perspective to replace the traditional black portrayal of Richard III. Regrettably, historians, whether as authors or popular television presenters of history, have continued to propagate outdated pronouncements about his ruthless ambition, usurpation, and murder.

It is high time that the truth about Richard III receives the fair hearing it deserves. In her book, "Richard III: The Reckoning," Annette Carson aims to rectify the imbalance by presenting a factual account of the events during his reign, drawing from the original sources and documentary evidence. Carson meticulously traces the actions and activities of the key characters, delving into the facts and timelines revealed through documentary evidence. She also ventures into areas where historians have hesitated to tread, raising some contentious questions.

In 2012, Carson was a member of Philippa Langleys Looking For Richard Project, which yielded significant new insights through the DNA-confirmed discovery of the king's remains. Her involvement in Langleys Missing Princes Project, an international research initiative focused on the "princes in the Tower," has further enriched her revelatory extra chapter.

Through her meticulous research and fearless exploration, Annette Carson has contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of Richard III, challenging the prevailing narratives and shedding light on the complexities of his reign. Her book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to reassess the historical record and gain a deeper appreciation for this enigmatic figure.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803991832