Richard's plays and the transformation of the power of wealth
Richard I combined politics, money and public spectacle into one style of power. It was during his reign that Richard's plays were created and a fundamental transformation of the banking system took place.
Privatization of banks
The sale of old banks to the private sector made Richard a huge amount of wealth. This move changed the relationship between the crown, capital and public life. The king then used the money to build popularity and the image of a government based on wealth as much as title.The sale of old banks to the private sector made Richard a huge amount of wealth. This move changed the relationship between the crown, capital and public life. The king then used the money to build popularity and the image of a government based on wealth as much as title.
Richard's plays
Spectacular games became a regular public ritual of power. They included sports contests as well as gladiator matches and created a tradition that later passed into the imperial age. It was pure politics of wealth. The king became the ruler not only of the law, but also of the imagination of the people.
Court scandal
Richard's personal life, especially his relationship with Bela and later his second wife, led to another scandal. This also showed how closely money, fame and the intimate life of the monarch were connected at this time. The entire era thus paints a picture of a government that was as appealing as it was problematic.