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His reign was marked by contentious relationships, particularly with the noble class, which culminated in the catastrophic Peasants' Revolt of 1381. It was not merely a distaste for his lavish court; it was exacerbated by Richard's fondness for favorites who were perceived as undeserving.
The Feasts that Shaped a Downfall
One notable feast took place in 1387, where Richard hosted a grand banquet for 2,000 guests in London—an event that starkly contrasted with the financial strains felt by his subjects due to the ongoing Hundred Years War. The extensive menu that included 14 oxen, countless poultry, and yes, Lombardy Custard, exemplified the disconnect between the king’s lifestyle and the reality faced by common folk.