A QUAKER REFLECTION ON KING RICHARD III AND HIS LEGACY

A QUAKER REFLECTION ON KING RICHARD III AND HIS LEGACY
For over 500 years Leicester was the resting place of a ruler and warrior. This man, who died a
violent death, was taken into protective and prayerful custody by the grey friars to prevent further
humiliation of the battered corpse by an excited mob, and buried with reverence according to the
rites of the church. Richard Plantagenet was a man of his time, wielding authority and holding onto
power as did other rulers. History decreed that he met his early end nearby and had a hasty burial in
Leicester.
A Quaker can feel some sense of connection if only from the fact that 150 years later George Fox,
the founder of Quakerism, was born at Fenny Drayton, just five miles from the scene of Richard's
death.
The discovery of Richard’s remains was exciting, not just for Leicester but for the world. The chance
of finding a known individual with a traceable family tree from so long ago almost necessitates that
the person be royal. Now we have the chance to throw light on records, rumours and legends
surrounding Richard, and answer many questions about his life and his death. The investigations
undertaken by the University of Leicester have made good use of the physical remains, after which it
is appropriate that they should be released to be reinterred respectfully, as was initially intended
530 years ago.
Many local Quakers visited the dig and observed events unfold with interest, and are happy to see
the boost in tourism for the city that has come with the discovery.
The story of what happened to Richard and whether he deserves his reputation has been the focus
of speculation for many a year. The only downside of the discovery is that it has encouraged
opposing factions and stirred up animosity between some individuals unable to accept the decisions
made about the appropriate place and way to rebury Richard. Quakers express the hope that this
antagonism might be laid to rest along with his bones, and that further discussion, though searching
and animated, may be conducted in a friendly manner.
Rest in peace, Richard Plantagenet.
Anne Fishenden
Leicester Quakers