Richard III: The Self-Made King

Michael Hicks

nov 2019 · Yale University Press

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The definitive biography and assessment of the wily and formidable prince who unexpectedly became monarch—the most infamous king in British history

The reign of Richard III, the last Yorkist king and the final monarch of the Plantagenet dynasty, marked a turning point in British history. But despite his lasting legacy, Richard only ruled as king for the final two years of his life. While much attention has been given to his short reign, Michael Hicks explores the whole of Richard’s fascinating life and traces the unfolding of his character and career from his early years as the son of a duke to his violent death at the battle of Bosworth.

Hicks explores how Richard—villainized for his imprisonment and probable killing of the princes—applied his experience to overcome numerous setbacks and adversaries. Richard proves a complex, conflicted individual whose Machiavellian tact and strategic foresight won him a kingdom. He was a reformer who planned big changes, but lost the opportunity to fulfill them and to retain his crown.

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Michael Hicks is Emeritus Professor of Medieval History at the University of Winchester and has been described as "the greatest living expert on Richard" by BBC History Magazine. His previous publications include The War of the Roses.