Plot summary Richard III is a history play by William Shakespeare that tells the story of Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, who murders and plots to become king of England. Jealous and crippled, Richard of Gloucester wants to be king of England and uses manipulation and deceit to achieve his goal. He murders his brothers, nephews, wife, and any opposition to become King Richard III. In the end, Henry of Richmond raises an army, kills Richard in battle, and becomes King Henry VII.