Chapters 11-12, Richard III, Conspiracies Summary and Analysis

The path towards Richard's kingship revealed much about his character. His loyalty to Edward IV was only skin deep. He seems to have always been dishonest and deceitful. Apparently he was excellent at hiding his real faults and that he was cruel and envious. Richard III's propaganda machine was impressive. Evidence also shows that Richard III's private morals were wanting though he did seem to have a real spiritual piety. Richard III benefited the Church and patronized education and the arts. He also lived in great luxury. Scholars sought his patronage.

However, Richard was highly unpopular. The South hated the way he came to power and thought it unlawful. Richard hoped that his good governance would win new loyalties. The English South regarded northerners as brutish and even as another race. Richard was...