Pathos In Richard 3 Essay

In William Shakespeare’s Richard III Act I Scene ii, the character Richard III is using pathos to get into Anne’s emotions by making her feel guilty about her husband’s death. After Richard kneels and gives Anne the sword, Richard exclaims, “Nay, do not pause; for I did kill King Henry – But ‘twas thy beauty that provoked me” (I.ii.184-185). Richard’s use of pathos, while talking to Anne, makes him sound desperate for her guilt. His choice of words in this instant gets into Anne’s head. He flat-out told her that the reason why he murdered her husband was because of her beauty. Richard knows that she is already in a fragile state; He takes advantage of it by making her feel guilty. From a personal experience, this is how bullying usually occurs.