The transformation of Hal, Prince of Wales and heir to the throne, from a youthfull trouble maker into a dignified King is one of the major psychological developments of Henry IV, Part 1. Hal struggles with the inablility to define his destined position in life; a responsible part of the monarch, as his father much desires, or a rogue like John Falstaff, a fat old man who steals and lies for a living. In the early stages of the play, Hal spends most of his time in taverns on the shabby side of London, hanging around with highwaymen and vagrants. Shortly thereafter, the first stages of transformation emerge as he hints of uncertainty about his role in the state and talks of abandoning his vagabond ways to behave as a royal prince should. By the end of the play he proves that he will fulfil his role and embrace his royal blood by standing with his father to fight in battle.
             He had long planned to do this, as was earlier revealed in I.ii. Hal says explicitly that he is only behaving so badly in order to make his eventual reformation more impressive.
             "So when this loose behavior i throw off and pay the debt i never promised...."
             In this line he refers to his relationship with Flastaff and the low lifes of the boars head tavern in contrast to the upholding of the monarchy. He planned to redeem himself "when men think least I will" (I.ii.212).
             Hal's metamorphesis is outwardly apparent to others, but most importantly to his father. The crucial moment when Hal starts to weave his cocoon is very brief and often overlooked. Evidently, with his father in despair and war looming nearer, Hal decides it is the right time to make his move.(describe fathers speech)... In the midst of his father's long speech of reproof, Hal gives a single sentenced reply implying that he is will rid himself of the worn out, lazy image he had previously projected and reveal his king-like
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