Henry V
William Shakespeare
The young King Henry V leads a weary and outnumbered English army into France to claim the French throne culminating in the miraculous victory at the Battle of Agincourt. The play explores the burdens of leadership the ethics of war and the power of national unity. It is famous for its rousing patriotic speeches and the Chorus who asks the audience to use their imagination to create the scale of the war on stage. It remains the definitive theatrical celebration of English national heroism.
Henry V: A reformed prince turned charismatic warrior-king who inspires his men through eloquent and powerful leadership. The Chorus: A narrator who bridges the gap between the audience and the epic historical events on stage. Princess Katherine: The French princess who engages in a charmingly awkward language-lesson and courtship with the English King.
First Performance: 1599, at Globe Theatre, London
A major patriotic success; noted for its innovative use of the Chorus and its powerful oratory.
Original Actors: Unknown