In this print, David Garrick plays the character of Richard III, the role which made his reputation as a serious actor. His performance was described as breaking the mould, and more naturalistic, compared to the extravagant style of the time. The scene depicted comes from Act V of the play, where Richard has been haunted in his sleep by the ghosts of those he has killed. He awakes, realising that all is lost; defeat and death fast approaching.