The Shakespearean stage was built on archaic terms and particular legalistic jargon that can confuse even the best of students. Richard II Vocabulary Quiz Test your knowledge of the language of treason, inheritance and godliness with this quiz. Try to define the wit and the sorrow of the text.
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Richard II Vocabulary Quiz Questions
- What does the term “anointed” mean in the context of Richard II?
- In Shakespeare’s usage, what does “sceptre” symbolize?
- What does “forsooth” mean as used in dialogue?
- In the line “Alas, poor England,” what does “alas” express?
- What does the word “grievous” most nearly mean in the play?
- What does “usurp” mean in the context of Bolingbroke’s actions?
- What does the term “tribute” refer to in Richard II?
- When Gaunt calls England a “teeming womb,” what does “teeming” mean?
- What does “banish” mean in the line “Banished this frail sepulchre of our flesh”?
- In “the hollow crown,” what does “hollow” symbolize?
- What does “lament” mean when characters mourn Richard’s downfall?
- What does “vain” mean in the phrase “vain conceit of kings”?
- What does “allegiance” mean when used by York?
- In the context of the play, what does “traitor” mean?
- What does “sorrow’s king” symbolize when Richard uses it?
- What does “resolve” mean when Bolingbroke says “resolve me this”?
- What does “reverence” mean in relation to royalty?
- When Richard speaks of “royal blood,” what does “royal” imply?
- What does “base” mean when applied to commoners?
- What does “tumult” mean in political discussion?
- What does “wretched” mean when describing Richard’s state?
- What does “alas the day” convey?
- What does “confound” mean when York accuses Richard of misrule?
- What does “discontent” mean among the rebels?
- What does “petition” mean when nobles speak to the king?
- What does “proclaim” mean when the king declares a verdict?
- What does “divine right” refer to in Richard’s rule?
- What does “foe” mean in the line “Each new day brings its foe”?
- What does “mercy” mean when Richard pleads before Bolingbroke?
- What does “doom” mean when the king gives sentence?