The historical drama King John was written in 1596 or 1597, and its theme is drawn from chronicles of that era.

It is the story of the erratic yet active reign of John, who abused the hereditary rights of his nephew Arthur, fought with France, quarreled with the Pope, seized monastic properties, and died poisoned by a monk.

With verses and dialogues reminiscent of Commedia dell'arte, contrived rhymes, and a multitude of similes, this work is considered a characteristic example of the writing style of the playwrights of the Elizabethan era and one of Shakespeare's most polished pieces.

[Excerpt from a publisher's or edition's presentation text]