Richard III

The play, part of Shakespeare's 'first tetralogy,' depicts Richard's ruthless ambition and his use of deception, manipulation, and violence to become King Richard III. After the death of his brother, King Edward IV, Richard orchestrates the deaths of his nephews, court noblemen, and other opposition to secure the throne.

His reign is marked by terror and eventually leads to his downfall when Henry Tudor, Earl of Richmond, challenges his claim and defeats him at the Battle of Bosworth Field.

Richmond then becomes King Henry VII, ending the Wars of the Roses and starting the Tudor dynasty.