King John

"King John", (in full "The Life and Death of King John") is a chronicle play in five acts by William Shakespeare written perhaps in 1594-96.

The title figure provides the central focus of the play and is surrounded by many contrasting characters-each able to influence him, each bringing irresolvable and individual problems into dramatic focus. Chief among these characters are John's domineering mother, Queen Eleanor (formerly Eleanor of Aquitaine), and Philip the Bastard, who supports the king and yet mocks all political and moral pretensions.

King John of England goes to war against the French after claims that his nephew should be king instead. John has conflict with the church, orders his nephew's death, and turns the nobles against himself. In the end, a tragic fate is awaiting John...