Manhood is a dynamic, elusive notion which is not entirely easy to define or distil. To attempt definition is a subjective task, though it is useful to look at how composers represent men in their work. Composers craft their work in such a way that their own prejudiced views on manhood are represented to the audience through particular language techniques. Animal imagery, rhetorical questions, dramatic irony, metaphors, simile and visual imagery, are just some techniques used to put across images of men being honourable, emotionally and physically tough and being able to adapt according to the circumstances and environment. These views can be observed through three speeches from Henry V, the King's School War Cry – "Ancient times", an advertisement for Pfizer razors and a text – "The urge to kill". Manhood is a notion which composers have long sort to explore in their work. Their individual personal views are extremely diverse however, and each use many and varied different language techniques to reflect the different traits of manhood.
             Shakespeare's view on men having a sense of honour is shown through Henry's speech, "St. Crispian's Day" can also be observed through the war cry "Ancient Times." In Henry V, the men are immortalised when they fight. They are not fighting for anything other than "the greater share of honour," their names to "be familiar in his mouth as household words," and to be able to "strip his sleeve and show his scars." Shakespeare, through Henry's speech to his troops uses much family imagery, simile, metaphors, and biblical imagery to motive the men to fight and die for their country. By using these techniques, Henry appeals to the men by forcing them to think of the honour which they will receive when they return form battle. Men want to "stand a tiptoe when this day is named," to be ...