King John (play) facts for kids

King John is a play written by the famous English writer William Shakespeare. It's a history play, which means it tells a story based on real events from the past. This play is all about King John, who ruled England a long time ago. Shakespeare probably wrote it around 1596 or 1597. The play was first printed in a special book called the First Folio in 1623.

About Shakespeare's "King John"

What is a History Play?

A history play is like a dramatic story based on real events and people from the past. Shakespeare wrote many history plays about English kings. These plays often show important moments in history and the challenges kings faced. They help us understand what life was like in those times.

Who Was King John?

King John was a real king of England who ruled from 1199 to 1216. He is famous for signing the Magna Carta, a very important document. This document limited the king's power and protected the rights of his subjects. King John faced many problems during his rule, including wars with France and disagreements with the Pope.

What is the Play About?

Shakespeare's King John focuses on some of the big challenges King John faced. It shows his struggles to keep control of his kingdom. The play also explores his conflicts with other powerful people, like the King of France and the Pope. A key part of the story involves the young Prince Arthur, who has a claim to the throne. The play looks at themes of power, loyalty, and justice.

When Was it Written?

Experts believe Shakespeare wrote King John between 1596 and 1597. He got much of his information from a historical book called Holinshed's Chronicles. This book was a popular source for writers at the time. It helped Shakespeare create plays based on real English history.

Where Can You See It?

King John is still performed today in theaters around the world. It's a chance for audiences to see a dramatic retelling of a part of English history. Many schools and theater groups study and perform Shakespeare's plays, including this one.

Images for kids

• 

  Herbert Beerbohm Tree (1852–1917), as King John in 'King John' by William Shakespeare, Charles A. Buchel (1900)

• 

  A 19th century drawing by Thomas Nast

• 

  "King John", Act IV, Scene 1, Hubert and Arthur (from the Boydell series), James Northcote (1789)

• 

  The Gossiping Blacksmith, Edward Penny (1769)

• 

  A photograph of Robert B. Mantell as King John

• 

  Phil Leach as King John in the 2016 Worcester Repertory Company production directed by Ben Humphrey, facing the real King John's tomb in Worcester Cathedral.