Henry V
Henry V is one in the series of historical plays William Shakespeare penned. Like some of Shakespeare's other plays, the main character is based off a real historical figure, King Henry V. A continuation of II Henry IV, this play follows the action of its predecessor, picking up soon after the mischievous and very savvy Hal has become King Henry V of England. Henry's father overthrew the legitimate king, and ever since, tried to gain such legitimacy for his own family. As illustrated in 1 Henry IV and 11 Henry IV, Hal,King Henry V, is charming and youthful. He is also very cunning and adept at using others for his own means, in a similar way to Hamlet. This time around, Henry goes about preparing for war with France, eventually winning this war, during which he delivers the famous Saint Crispin's Day speech with the immortal line "We few, we happy few, we band of brothers..."
Shakespeare's play, like many of his others, is a fascinating meditation on human nature. King Henry, Hal, is most assuredly mortal. His unorthodox lifestyle prior to kingship was widely known and illustrated in the prequels to this play, I and II Henry IV. Henry is also a crafty politician that is easily followed and widely lionized, although the text begs the reader to question exactly why Hal should be so honored. At the same time, it is hard not to enjoy and/or respect Henry, who is able to accomplish practically anything he sets his mind to.
The great thing about this edition of the play (The Folger Library General Reader's Shakespeare) is how the text of the play is only on one side of the page, and the other page is completely devoted to relevant definitions, meanings behind historical references, and sometimes even illustrations. If you enjoy this drama/history play, you will enjoy learning even more about Henry's history in 1 Henry IV and II Henry IV. If you haven't already or have only had minimal (and required) exposure to Shakespeare, try easing into his collection by reading one of his comedies, such as All's Well That Ends Well, or revenge dramas such as Hamlet. Then move on to the historical plays and dramas. No matter which play you choose, it's still Shakespeare, and will be wonderful. Stay tuned for more Shakespeare reviews!