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This article discusses The Hollow Crown(2012, 2016) adaptations of William Shakespeare’s histories in the light of broader changes that have overtaken television. Contextualising the series in terms of technical, industrial, cultural, and critical transformations, the article highlights the Shakespearean significance of debates in television studies around quality, complexity, and aesthetics. To illustrate this thesis, the article analyses the opening of Richard II(dir. Rupert Goold, 2012), unpacking the ways in which the first 60 seconds merge markers of prestige with a distinctive cinematic style and a dense imagistic and acoustic register in order to achieve narrative intricacy and poetic responsiveness.

The article offers information on the role of the Shakespeare canonical texts play in the development of ethical, philosophical and civic frameworks. It discusses the Henry V of England's support the language of contemporary militarism. It mentions the Shakespeare’s history in understandings of conflict, along with criticism of the film, "The Hollow Crown: Henry V" by the film director, Thea Sharrock.