In the opening scenes, the ambitious and power-hungry Richard, Duke of Gloucester, plots to ascend the throne of England by manipulating, betraying, and eliminating those who stand in his way. He orchestrates the downfall of his brother George, Duke of Clarence, by spreading false rumors and securing his imprisonment and eventual execution. With a facade of loyalty, Richard poses as a trusted confidant to his brother, King Edward IV, while secretly plotting to seize power. He further extends his reach by successfully wooing and marrying Lady Anne, the widow of a man he had murdered, thereby solidifying his claim to the throne.

As King Edward IV grows ill, Richard accelerates his schemes to create chaos and clear his path to kingship. He ruthlessly eliminates rivals and manipulates key players at court, including the Duke of Buckingham and other nobles. Through cunning deceit and ruthless ambition, Richard succeeds in ascending to power, but his ruthless actions sow seeds of distrust and rebellion. His tyrannical rule is marked by paranoia and brutality, as former allies and oppressed subjects turn against him, leading to a climactic confrontation.