Research Henry V. What is the play about? When was it first performed? Find a contemporary production of the play you can get an idea of and research it in terms of concept, style, design, casting. Give some attention to your own character and their role in the play.

Exploring Henry V

What is Henry V about?

The setting and background to the play

'The play is set in England in the early fifteenth century. The political situation in England is tense: King Henry IV has died, and his son, the young King Henry V, has just assumed the throne. Several bitter civil wars have left the people of England restless and dissatisfied. Furthermore, in order to gain the respect of the English people and the court, Henry must live down his wild adolescent past, when he used to consort with thieves and drunkards at the Boar’s Head Tavern on the seedy side of London.'-http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/henryv/summary.html

Why does Henry V goes to war?

Henry V claims that he owns certain parts of France due to his distant roots in the French royal family.the young Prince of France replies to these accusations by sending Henry V Tennis balls.Henry is insulted and decides that he shall invade France.He gathers his troops for war.

The Conspiracy

Henry learns of a conspiracy against his life by three traitors (One of which  is his friend Scrope) working for the French.He surprises them and catches them out by handing them later about their bad deeds.They beg for mercy however they are rejected and executed. 

Finally setting sail and rising up

English set sail where they fight their way across France.They begin a winning streak after being able to conquer the town of Harfleur where Henry gives his famous speech to motivate his fellow soldiers to victory.

It's not looking good for Bardolph and Nym

Bardloph,Pistol and Nym though very entertaining characters are lowlife,undercover criminals.They are all old friends of Henry V.Things begin to change as in France Bardolph and Nym are caught looting a church and are hanged at King Henry's command.

Are things starting to go downhill?

The war begins to climax at the famous battle of Agincourt where the English are outnumbered by the French.The night before the Battle King Henry diguises himself as a soldier and talks to many of the other soldiers in the english camp.Henry gets to hear their opinion of the battle and he also learns about his soldiers.Later Henry prays to God for power and Miracuously the English win the battle with the French Surrendering.

ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS WELL!

Peace Negotiations are made and the two countries,France and England are united through marriage.King Henry will marry Catherine the French Kings daughter meaning his son will be the King of France.