Beaurline, L. A. Introduction to King John, by William Shakespeare, 1-57. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1990.

Beaurline provides extensive discussions of several aspects of the play—including style, themes, and characterization—and a detailed history of stage productions. In his analysis of the game of power politics in King John, Beaurline demonstrates numerous similarities and contrasts between characters.

Braunmiller, A. R. Introduction to The Life and Death of King John, by William Shakespeare, 1-93. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1989.

Braunmiller discusses the likely date and probable sources of the play and describes its theatrical reputation and stage history. Additionally, he offers extended remarks on the language of King John and on several central thematic issues: the political power struggle, relations between older and younger generations, and legitimate versus unlawful inheritance.

Burgoyne, Sidney C. "Cardinal Pandulph and the 'Curse of Rome.'" College Literature IV, no. 3 (Fall 1977): 232-40.

Burgoyne traces...