Final answer:
Richard III's opening speech in Act 1, Scene 1 reveals that the central idea is his discontent with peacetime and aspirations to orchestrate a seize of power, showcasing his ambitions and morally corrupt nature. The correct option is B.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Act 1, Scene 1 of Shakespeare's Richard III, the opening speech by Richard, also known as the Duke of Gloucester, serves to introduce the central idea of his marked discontent with the peaceful times and his machinations to change the status quo to seize power for himself. He describes how the brutal War of the Roses has given way to a time of peace, which does not sit well with his warlike nature. Rather than celebrating the peace like others, he outlines his plans to stir conflict and enhance his own standing, all under the guise of civility.
Richard's opening monologue reveals critical aspects of his character, mainly his ambition and readiness to employ manipulation and deceit to achieve his goals. His grievance with peace-time society and his own physical deformities fuel his envy and bitterness, prompting a ruthless, power-hungry drive. Overall, the speech vividly illustrates Richard's complex personality, defined by cunning, resentment, and a glaring lack of morality. This introduction sets the tone for the entire play, showcasing a protagonist who is a villain in his own tale.
Choosing the correct option from the given choices, it's clear that the central idea and Richard's character align with Option B: discontent with the current state of affairs and a determination to seize power, with the speech revealing his ambition, manipulation, and lack of morality.