Character Analysis
Edward IV
Edward IV appears only briefly in this play. The eldest son of the Duke of York is depicted as one who already is paying for his sins and those of the house of York in general. His reign has been characterized by strife including the Woodville faction and those who bitterly oppose the queen and her family. Edward dies believing that amity has been restored and that the succession of the crown to his son has been assured. He is, then, prominent among those who are deluded by Richard, as the death of Clarence illustrates. The fact that his personal life had been a notorious one, particularly as relates to Jane Shore, worked to Richard's advantage after Edward's death.