Richard II Vocabulary Quiz

What does “doom” mean when the king gives sentence?

What does “banish” mean in the line “Banished this frail sepulchre of our flesh”?

When Richard speaks of “royal blood,” what does “royal” imply?

What does “foe” mean in the line “Each new day brings its foe”?

What does “reverence” mean in relation to royalty?

What does “discontent” mean among the rebels?

What does “confound” mean when York accuses Richard of misrule?

When Gaunt calls England a “teeming womb,” what does “teeming” mean?

What does “vain” mean in the phrase “vain conceit of kings”?

What does the term “tribute” refer to in Richard II?

What does “usurp” mean in the context of Bolingbroke’s actions?

What does “divine right” refer to in Richard’s rule?

What does “wretched” mean when describing Richard’s state?

What does “allegiance” mean when used by York?

In the line “Alas, poor England,” what does “alas” express?

What does “sorrow’s king” symbolize when Richard uses it?

What does “base” mean when applied to commoners?

What does the term “anointed” mean in the context of Richard II?

What does the word “grievous” most nearly mean in the play?

What does “forsooth” mean as used in dialogue?

What does “alas the day” convey?

What does “lament” mean when characters mourn Richard’s downfall?

What does “resolve” mean when Bolingbroke says “resolve me this”?

What does “petition” mean when nobles speak to the king?

In “the hollow crown,” what does “hollow” symbolize?

In the context of the play, what does “traitor” mean?

What does “tumult” mean in political discussion?

What does “mercy” mean when Richard pleads before Bolingbroke?

What does “proclaim” mean when the king declares a verdict?

In Shakespeare’s usage, what does “sceptre” symbolize?