The reign of Queen Elizabeth I was a time of prosperity for the arts in England. This period is known as the “Golden Age” and English nationalism gained momentum, as evidently demonstrated by writers creating their works in the English language. Furthermore, the Queen had a passion for the arts, and therefore encouraged and patronized activities such as the creation of theaters. Overall, London became a cultural center where the arts flourished under the Queen. Playwrights, such as William Shakespeare, were enthusiastic about this embrace of the arts and were encouraged to portray the characteristics of Elizabethan society. As a result, influences from the major cultural center encouraged and shaped plays such as Richard III. Historical influences are evident through Shakespeare's plot, the character of Richard III and the challenging of gender stereotypes, resulting in the glorification of the Tudor dynasty. First, Niccolò Machiavelli's influences on England during the Elizabethan era are conveyed in the plot of the play. Machiavelli published The Prince and established guidelines for how a prince could gain and secure power (“Machiavelli's Influence on Shakespeare”). This can be seen in the first scenes of the play, when Richard outlines his plans that will lead him to the throne. The character exclaims, “I have plotted plots, dangerous inductions, drunken prophecies, slanders, and dreams” (Act 1). Shakespeare's main point is that Richard III will do anything in his power to get what he wants. This characterization is linked to the influence of Machiavelli in the Elizabethan era because his writings encouraged the pursuit and obtaining of power. While Machiavelli introduced new political ideas during this era, Shakespeare adapted his tenants... middle of paper... The rise of the queen brings England, overall, is well incorporated into the play. Shakespeare creates a play of this period through the plot, characters, and overall conflicts of the play. Although the events taking place in London are not the focus of the play, Shakespeare manages to include their impact through his characters. While incorporating historical events into his plot, Shakespeare manages to legitimize the rule of the ruling dynasty. Works Cited Preis, Dorothea. “Richard III Society of NSW.” Richard III Society of NSW RSS. HSC Story Extension, November 7, 2012. Web. April 6, 2014. Shapiro, Susan. "Feminists in Elizabethan England". History today. History Today, nd Web. 06 April 2014."Study tools." Study tools. Np, nd Web. 07 April 2014. “The Richard III Society.” Richard III Society of NSW RSS. HRH The Duke of Clougester, nd Web. 07 April. 2014.