ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author shows primary interest in that notably odd play King John will be in its focus on texts of various kinds and what and how they represent. What is more, the history of the play has led to its being connected with two further texts: the Magna Carta, now and even in Shakespeare's time the primary association with John's reign, and the anonymous play The Troublesome Reign of King John. In the case of The Troublesome Reign of King John, the question has been whether it precedes Shakespeare's play, in which case it must have influenced him, or whether his play preceded it, in which case it must have been influenced by him. The opening of King John prepares us for what follows both by focusing our attention on the conflict between the two countries and by presenting us with an impasse.
