How does Shakespeare present King Henry V in act 1 scene 1 of ‘Henry V’? In the play ‘Henry V’ about King Henry V’s reign of England between 1413 and 1422. He was born in 1387, and reigned from the age of 26 to the age of 35, when he died. During the play the archbishop of Canterbury and Ely first describe King Henry V as a ‘model King’ Ely: ‘We are blessed in the change’. He talks of how king Henry V has changed from a misguided, out of control youth, into, to their own advantage a good king, that keeps himself busy with the country’s troubles. Within the first scene the archbishops appear to be scheming and manipulative. As they even consider and then carry out to bribe the king- ‘For I have made an offer to his majesty Upon our spiritual convocation And in regard of causes now in hand Which I have opened to his grace at large, As touching France, to give a great sum Than ever at one time the clergy yet Did to his predecessors part withal.’ When the King finally enters (Act 1 scene 2), graciously and tediously, he appears to be na ” ive and lucid.
Taking into great consideration and under great care the advice that the archbishop gives him. Until the time when he discovers that the Dauphin has proceeded to mock him with his gifts (tennis balls).
Enriching the Kings anger and frustration with the situation with France. Using a carefully suggestive and symbolic sentence to prevail that he is not to be mocked, and will act upon the Dauphins rude mockery of the King that will not be tolerated. This implies that there is a primary character change that shows the fierce, wild side of the King that was unsheathed by the Dauphins gesture.
The Essay on Was King Henry VIII A Good Or A Bad King?
“His majesty is 29 years old and is very handsome.” How the Venetian Ambassador described Henry between 1515-1519. “A youngster who cares for nothing but girls and wasting the money his father left.” How the French Ambassador described Henry between 1509-1511. The French Ambassador’s answer is not surprising as he and Henry were enemies and later they went to war. ...
During the Kings speech that refers to the Dauphins crude gesticulation, he speaks with great animosity and yet delight for having a reason to take action on the country which mocks him so. His speech is imposing and calm, and in well-spoken language, perceiving him to be of high education and vocabulary use. When he gives command for his army to prepare for war- ‘Therefor let every man now his task thought That this fair action may on foot be brought’- The king speaks with power and faith in the people that he genuinely cares for and takes responsibility over, showing his patriotism and loyalty to his country. Though if understood, the king is not at first just being quiet and patient while the archbishop suggests to take action. But the king has thought about it hard, and plays with them, as to be cautious about what he is getting himself into. Though he does take advise from Canterbury and Ely, he seems to rely upon his own decree before taking any action.
He waits for a good reason for waging war, but has already in his head made up his mind about declaring it. Which is when that Dauphin’s present comes and breaks the barrier between England and France, the King of France and King Henry V. When King Henry V speaks his voice is calm and slightly anger filled. The anger in his voice seems tamed by his own judgement and self-discipline, which he gained from his old wild days before he was king.
Therefore it is as ‘clear as the summers sun’ that as the Archbishop of Canterbury and Ely proclaimed, King Henry V is a ‘model king’, and in Act 1 of Shakespeare’s ‘King henry V’ that is exactly the way he was portrayed. He is honorable, witty, smart, loyal, calm and rational, well educated, brave, virtuous and willful with a great sense of imposing control and grace. Word count: 627 King lear- Shakespeare.
