Later Interpretations of King John
History: KS3, topic 2.5.6
Later Interpretations of King John
In subsequent centuries, King John’s reputation has remained the same. He is often depicted as a weak tyrant.
Shakespeare’s King John
- In 1623, Shakespeare published his play, King John.
- This play covers the struggles of King John as England’s ruler.
- Shakespeare casts King John in a negative light.
- He is presented as a weak and evil tyrant.
- This demonstrates how long-lasting King John’s bad reputation was.
The legend of Robin Hood
- The legend of Robin Hood is based on the virtue of King Richard I and the evilness of King John.
- For example, in the 1973 Disney adaption of Robin Hood, King John is depicted as a greedy tyrant.
Test yourself on Later Interpretations of King John
When did Shakespeare publish his play, King John?