Henry IV
In Shakespeare's Henry IV, Part One honour is seen throughout the entire play. It is seen in Prince Henry, nicknamed Hal. In his soliloquy he tells the readers that he will change his ignoble ways to be more like a true Prince. Honour can also be seen in Hotspur; he is willing to do anything for it even at the cost of his own life. Falstaff views honour as just another word and those who strive for it just their time. Honour can cause death and drastic change in a person but to some it has no meaning to effect. Honour is a virtue coveted by all men, they are willing to die for it, change themselves to attain it but again to some its nothing but a word. Hal in the beginning of the play can be described as an irresponsible, an ignoble and a discreditable Prince.King Henry wishes that his son were Hotspur instead of Hal, Hotspur being very courageous, trustworthy, honourable and yearns for battle. "A son who is the theme of Honour's tongue, Amongst a grove the very straightest plan, Who is sweet fortune's minion and her pride; Whilst I, by looking on the praise of him, See riot and dishonour stain the brow Of my young Harry. O,that it could be proved that some night-tripping fairy had exchange
He's mind is occupied with this idea of honour. Hotspur is driven by this idea of honour. Hotspur refuses to give up the prisoner. This just shows how much he is willing to change, only for his father and his father's love. Falstaff is a thief, a drunk, and a trouble to society and to others. He believes that by acquiring honour he will attain not only fame and glory but also his father's approval and attention lastly his father's love. The king demands the he hand over his prisoners to him. He exposes his plan to us, he reveals that he will help Poins rob Falstaff and friends. "Falstaff derides the troops he has managed to scrape up. To Falstaff it's nothing more than a waste of time, a waste of life and nothing but a word. He knows that Hal will be the future king of England and knows if he stays friends with him he will probably become one of the Lords of the king. God keep lead out of me; I need no more weight than mine own bowels. He acknowledges that he has abused the King's fund, hauling in not the best, who were able to bribe their way out of service but the worst (IV, ii, 20-31).
Common topics in this essay:
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Hal Hal,
Eastcheap Tavern,
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Walter Blunt's,
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own father,
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Acceptance Essays
