We all know the famous phrase from Henry VI, Part II, “The first thing we do, let's kill all the lawyers.” This is often cited as proof that Shakespeare despised lawyers and is often quoted by individuals to show disdain of the services that lawyers offer. My reading of the play, however, indicates that in the context in which this statement was made, Shakespeare was actually praising lawyers and especially their protection of the individual’s property and personal liberty. Shakespeare’s play describes the conflict between the House of Lancaster and the House of York, which is known in history as … Continue reading The First Thing We Do