The humility of kings from Richard II to Henry V Although Shakespeare was a conservative, he believed in the humility of kings. Plays from Richard II to Henry V affirm Shakespeare's idea that a king must understand the common man to be a good ruler. These four plays tell the story of three kings' ability to recognize, identify with, and be part of the humanity he rules. Shakespeare defends his conviction with the fall of Richard II, who could not or would not understand his subjects; the constancy of Henry IV, whose combined humility and strength brought him defeat; and Hal, whose raucous behavior led his father to worry and his country to victory. King Richard II is Shakespeare's example of a king who distances himself from the reality of ordinary people. Richard considers his position a source of amusement. His "cares" as king, other than the opportunity to have a pleasant audience, are but a burden. Instead of investigating Henry and Mawbrick's accusations of treason, he exiles both men to get off easy. Richard was born a king and knows no other life than that of royalty. Unfortunately the lesson that men must know to govern them costs him. Richard's lesson influences his usurper and his heir, demonstrating to them both the value of humility. After exiling Henry, Richard took the opportunity to criticize his “courtship of the people”. His speech seems at first to merit Henry for his sociability, but it quickly becomes clear that, for Richard, commoners are not fit for royal consumption: how he seemed to delve into their hearts, with a humble and familiar courtesy, what reverence he threw. on slaves, Courting poor artisans with the art of smiling (I.iv.25-8) Shakespeare of course establishes Henry's ability to muster support from the masses, the very key to his victory over Richard later in the room. The speech also clarifies Richard's position on the subject to highlight this contrast between the two men. To polish Richard's character, Gaunt gives a revealing and unbridled description of Richard just before he dies. After Richard exiles the heir soul from his domain, Gaunt is bitter and tired of his weak and pompous qualities: A thousand flatterers sit in your crown, whose compass is no bigger than your head.,