king henry iv analysis

7/29/2019 King Henry IV Analysis

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King Henry IV, Part I Characters Analysis features noted Shakespearescholar William Hazlitt's famous critical essay about the charactersof King Henry IV, Part I.

IF Shakespear's fondness for the ludicrous some-times led to faults in histragedies (which was not often the case) he has made us amends by thecharacter of Falstaff. This is perhaps the most substantial comic character thatever was invented. Sir John carries a most portly presence in the mind's eye;and in him, not to speak it profanely, "we behold the fulness of the spirit of witand humour bodily." We are as well acquainted with his person as his mind,and his jokes come upon us with double force and relish from the quantity of flesh through which they make their way, as he shakes his fat sides withlaughter, or "lards the lean earth as he walks along." Other comic charactersseem, if we approach and handle them, to resolve themselves into air, "into thinair"; but this is embodied and palpable to the grossest apprehension: it lies"three fingers deep upon the ribs," it plays about the lungs and the diaphragmwith all the force of animal enjoyment. His body is like a good estate to hismind, from which he receives rents and revenues of profit and pleasure in kind,according to its extent, and the richness of the soil. Wit is often a meagresubstitute for pleasurable sensation; an effusion of spleen and petty spite at thecomforts of others, from feeling none in itself. Falstaff's wit is an emanation of a fine constitution; an exuberance of good-humour and good-nature; anoverflowing of his love of laughter and good-fellowship; a giving vent to hisheart's ease, and over-contentment with himself and others. He would not be in

character, if he were not so fat as he is; for there is the greatest keeping in the boundless luxury of his imagination and the pampered self-indulgence of his physical appetites. He manures and nourishes his mind with jests, as he doeshis body with sack and sugar. He carves out his jokes, as he would a capon or ahaunch of venison, where there is cut and come again; and pours out upon themthe oil of gladness. His tongue drops fatness, and in the chambers of his brain"it snows of meat and drink." He keeps up perpetual holiday and open house,and we live with him in a round, of invitations to a rump and dozen. Yet weare not to suppose that he was a mere sensualist. All this is as much inimagination as in reality. His sensuality does not engross and stupefy his other

faculties, but "ascends me into the brain, clears away all the dull, crude vapoursthat environ it, and makes it full of nimble, fiery, and delectable shapes." Hisimagination keeps up the ball after his senses have done with it. He seems tohave even a greater enjoyment of the freedom from restraint, of good cheer, of his ease, of his vanity, in the ideal exaggerated description which he gives of them, than in fact. He never fails to enrich his discourse with allusions to eatingand drinking, but we never see him at table. He carries his own larder about

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with him, and he is himself "a tun of man." His pulling out the bottle in thefield of battle is a joke to shew his contempt for glory accompanied withdanger, his systematic adherence to his Epicurean philosophy in the most tryingcircumstances. Again, such is his deliberate exaggeration of his own vices, thatit does not seem quite certain whether the account of his hostess's bill, found inhis pocket, with such an out-of-the-way charge for capons and sack with onlyone halfpenny-worth of. bread, was not put there by himself as a trick tohumour the jest upon his favourite propensities, and as a conscious caricatureof himself. He is represented as a liar, a braggart, a coward, a glutton, etc., andyet we are not offended but delighted with him; for he is all these as much toamuse others as to gratify himself. He openly assumes all these characters toshew the humourous part of them. The unrestrained indulgence of his own ease,appetites, and conveni-ence, has neither malice nor hypocrisy in it. In a word,he is an actor in himself almost as much as upon the stage, and we no moreobject to the character of Falstaff in a moral point of view than we should think of bringing an excellent comedian, who should represent him to the life, beforeone of the police offices. We only consider the number of pleasant lights inwhich he puts certain foibles (the more pleasant as they are opposed to thereceived rules and necessary restraints of society), and do not trouble ourselvesabout the consequences re-sulting from them, for no mischievous consequencesdo result. Sir John is old as well as fat, which gives a melancholy retrospectivetinge to the character; and by the disparity between his inclinations and hiscapacity for enjoyment, makes it still more ludicrous and fantastical.

The secret of Falstaff's wit is for the most part a masterly presence of mind, anabsolute self-possession, which nothing can disturb. His repartees areinvoluntary suggestions of his self-love; instinctive evasions of everything thatthreatens to interrupt the career of his triumphant jollity and self-complacency.His very size floats him out of all his difficulties in a sea of rich conceits; andhe turns round on the pivot of his convenience, with every occasion and at amoment's warning. His natural repugnance to every unpleasant thought or circumstance, of itself makes light of objections, and provokes the mostextravagant and licentious answers in his own justification. His indifference totruth puts no check upon his invention, and the more improbable and

unexpected his contrivances are, the more happily does he seem to be deliveredof them, the anticipation of their effect acting as a stimulus to the gaiety of hisfancy. The success of one adventurous sally gives him spirits to undertakeanother: he deals always in round numbers, and his exaggerations and excusesare "open, palpable, monstrous as the father that begets them." His dissolutecarelessness of what he says discovers itself in the first dialogue with thePrince.

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"Falstaff. By the Lord, thou say'st true, lad; and is notmine hostess of the tavern a most sweet wench?P. Henry. As the honey of Hibia, my old lad of thecastle; and is not a buff-jerkin a most sweet robe of durance?Falstaff. How now, how now, mad wag, what in thyquips and thy quiddities? what a plague have I to do witha buff-jerkin?P. Henry. Why, what a pox have I to do with minehostess of the tavern?"

In the same scene he afterwards affects melancholy, from pure satisfaction of heart, and professes reform, because it is the farthest thing in the world from histhoughts. He has no qualms of conscience, and therefore would as soon talk of them as of anything else when the humour takes him.

"Falstaff, But, Hal, I pr'ythee trouble me no more withvanity. I would to God thou and I knew where a com-modity of good names were to be bought: an old lord of council rated me the other day in the street about you, sir;

but I mark'd him not, and yet he talked very wisely, andin the street too.P. Henry. Thou didst well, for wisdom cries out in thestreet, and no man regards it.Falstaff. O, thou hast damnable iteration, and art indeedable to corrupt a saint. Thou hast done much harm untome, Hal; God forgive thee for it. Before I knew thee,Hal, I knew nothing, and now I am, if a man should speak truly, little better than one of the wicked. I must give over this life, and I will give it over, by the Lord; an I do not,I am a villain. I'll be damned for never a king's son inChristendom.P. Henry. Where shall we take a purse to-morrow, Jack?Falstaff. Where thou wilt, lad, I'll make one ; an I do

not, call me villain, and baffle me.P. Henry. I see good amendment of life in thee, from praying to purse-taking.Falstaff. Why, Hal, 'tis my vocation, Hal. 'Tis no sinfor a man to labour in his vocation."

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Of the other prominent passages, his account of his pretended resistance to therobbers, "who grew from four men in buckram into eleven" as the imaginationof his own valour increased with his relating it, his getting off when the truth isdiscovered by pretending he knew the Prince, the scene in which in the personof the old king he lectures the Prince and gives himself a good character, thesoliloquy on honour, and description of his new-raised recruits, his meetingwith the chief justice, his abuse of the Prince and Poins, who overhear him, toDoll Tearsheet, his reconciliation with Mrs. Quickly who has arrested him for an old debt, and whom he persuades to pawn her plate to lend him ten poundsmore, and the scenes with Shallow and Silence, are all inimitable. Of all of them, the scene in which Falstaff plays the part, first, of the King, and then of Prince Henry, is the one that has been the most often quoted. We must quote itonce more in illustration of our remarks.

"Falstaff. Harry, I do not only marvel where thou spendest thy time, but alsohow thou art accompanied: for though the camomile, the more it is trodden on,the faster it grows, yet youth, the more it is wasted, the sooner it wears. Thatthou art my son, I have partly thy mother's word, partly my own opinion; butchiefly, a villainous trick of thine eye, and a foolish hanging of thy nether lip,that doth warrant me. If then thou be son to me, here lies the point;Why,

being son to me, art thou so pointed at? Shall the blessed sun of heaven prove amicher, and eat blackberries? A question not to be ask'd. Shall the son of England prove a thief, and take purses? a question not to be ask'd. There is athing, Harry, which thou hast often heard of, and it is known to many in our

land by the name of pitch: this pitch, as ancient writers do report, doth defile;so doth the company thou keepest: for, Harry, now I do not speak to thee indrink, but in tears; not in pleasure, but in passion; not in words only, but inwoes also:and yet there is a virtuous man, whom I have often noted in thycompany, but I know not his name.P. Henry. What manner of man, an it like your majesty?Falstaff. A goodly portly man, i'faith, and a corpulent; of a cheerful look, a

pleasing eye, and a most noble carriage; and, as I think, his age some fifty, or, by'r-lady, inclining to threescore; and now I do remember me, his name isFalstaff: if that man should be lewdly given, he deceiveth me; for, Harry, I see

virtue in his looks. If then the fruit may be known by the tree, as the tree by thefruit, then peremptorily I speak it, there is virtue in that Falstaff: him keep with,the rest banish. And tell me now, thou naughty varlet, tell me, where hast thou

been this month?P. Henry. Dost thou speak like a king? Do thou stand for me, and I'll play myfather.Falstaff. Depose me? if thou dost it half so gravely, so majestically, both in

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word and matter, hang me up by the heels for a rabbit-sucker or a poulterer'share.P. Henry. Well, here I am set.Falstaff. And here I stand:judge, my masters.P. Henry. Now, Harry, whence come you?Falstaff. My noble lord, from Eastcheap.P. Henry. The complaints I hear of thee are grievous.Falstaff. S'blood, my lord, they are false:nay, I'll tickle ye for a young prince,i'faith.P. Henry. Swearest thou, ungracious boy? henceforth ne'er look on me. Thouart violently carried away from grace: there is a devil haunts thee, in thelikeness of a fat old man; a tun of man is thy companion. Why dost thouconverse with that trunk of humours, that bolting-hutch of beastliness, thatswoln parcel of dropsies, that huge bom-bard of sack, that stuft cloak-bag of guts, that roasted Manning-tree ox with the pudding in his belly, that reverendvice, that grey iniquity, that father ruffian, that vanity in years? wherein is hegood, but to taste sack and drink it? wherein neat and cleanly, but to carve acapon and eat it? wherein cunning, but in craft? wherein crafty, but in villainy?wherein villainous, but in all things? wherein worthy, but in nothing?Falstaff. I would, your grace would take me with you;whom means your grace?P. Henry. That villainous, abominable mis-leader of youth, Falstaff, that old white-bearded Satan.Falstaff. My lord, the man I know.

P. Henry. I know thou dost.Falstaff. But to say, I know more harm in him than in myself, were to say morethan I know. That he is old (the more the pity) his white hairs do witness it: butthat he is (saving your reverence) a whore-master, that I utterly deny. If sack and sugar be a fault, God help the wicked! if to be old and merry be a sin, thenmany an old host that I know is damned: if to be fat be to be hated, thenPharaoh's lean kine are to be loved. No, my good lord; banish Peto, banishBardolph, banish Poins: but for sweet Jack Falstaff, kind Jack Falstaff, trueJack Falstaff, valiant Jack Falstaff, and therefore more valiant, being as he is,old Jack Falstaff, banish not him thy Harry's company; banish plump Jack, and

banish all the world.P. Henry. I do, I will.[Knocking; and Hostess and Bardolph go out.

Re-enter BARDOLPH, running,

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Bardolph. O, my lord, my lord; the sheriff, with a most monstrous watch, is atthe door.Falstaff. Out, you rogue! play out the play: I have much to say in the behalf of that Falstaff." One of the most characteristic descriptions of Sir John is thatwhich Mrs. Quickly gives of him when he asks her "What is the gross sum thatI owe thee?"

"Hostess. Marry, if thou wert an honest man, thyself, and the money too. Thoudidst swear to me upon a parcel-gilt goblet, sitting in my Dolphin-chamber, atthe round table, by a sea-coal fire on Wednesday in Whitsunweek, when thePrince broke thy head for likening his father to a singing man of Windsor; thoudidst swear to me then, as I was washing thy wound, to marry me, and makeme my lady thy wife. Canst thou deny it? Did not goodwife Keech, the

butcher's wife, come in then, and call me gossip Quickly? coming in to borrowa mess of vinegar, telling us, she had a good dish of prawns; whereby thoudidst desire to eat some; whereby I told thee they were ill of a green wound?And didst thou not, when she was gone down stairs, desire me to be no more sofamiliarity with such poor people; saying, that ere long they should call memadam? And didst thou not kiss me, and bid me fetch thee thirty shil-lings? I

put thee now to thy book-oath; deny it, if thou canst."

This scene is to us the most convincing proof of Falstaff's power of gainingover the good will of those he was familiar with, except indeed Bar-dolph'ssomewhat profane exclamation on hearing the account of his death, "Would Iwere with him, wheresoe'er he is, whether in heaven or hell."

One of the topics of exulting superiority over others most common in Sir John'smouth is his corpulence and the exterior marks of good living which he carriesabout him, thus "turning his vices into commodity." He accounts for the friend-ship between the Prince and Poins, from "their legs being both of a bigness,"and compares Justice Shallow to "a man made after supper of a cheese-paring."There cannot be a more striking grada-tion of character than that betweenFalstaff and Shallow, and Shallow and Silence. It seems diffi-cult at first to falllower than the squire; but this fool, great as he is, finds an admirer and humble

foil in his cousin Silence. Vain of his acquaintance with Sir John, who makes a- butt of him, he exclaims, "Would, cousin Silence, that thou had'st seen thatwhich this knight and I have seen!"-" Aye, Master Shallow, we have heard thechimes at midnight," says Sir John. To Falstaff's observation, "I did not think Master Silence had been a man of this mettle," Silence answers, "Who, I? Ihave been merry twice and once ere now." What an idea is here conveyed of a

prodigality of living? What good husbandry and economical self-denial in his

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pleasures? What a stock of lively recollections? It is curious that Shakespear has ridiculed in Justice Shallow, who was "in some authority under the king,"that disposition to unmeaning tautology which is the regal infirmity of later times, and which, it may be supposed, he acquired from talking to his cousinSilence, and receiving no answers.

"Falstaff. You have here a goodly dwelling, and a rich.Shallow. Barren, barren, barren; beggars all, beggarsall, Sir John; marry, good air. Spread Davy, spread Davy.Well said, Davy.Falstaff. This Davy serves you for good uses.Shallow. A good varlet, a good varlet, a very good varlet.By the mass, I have drank too much sack at supper. Agood varlet. Now sit down, now sit down. Come, cousin."

The true spirit of humanity, the thorough knowledge of the stuff we are madeof, the practical wisdom with the seeming fooleries in the whole of the garden-scene at Shallow's country-seat, and just before in the exquisite dialogue

between him and Silence on the death of old Double, have no parallel anywhereelse. In one point of view, they are laughable in the extreme; in another they areequally affecting, if it is affecting to shew what a little thing is human life, whata poor forked creature man is!

The heroic and serious part of these two plays founded on the story of HenryIV. is not inferior to the comic and farcical. The characters of Hotspur andPrince Henry are two of the most beautiful and dramatic, both in themselvesand from contrast, that ever were drawn. They are the essence of chivalry. Welike Hotspur the best upon the whole, perhaps because he was unfortunate. The characters of their fathers, Henry IV. and old Northumberland, are kept upequally well. Henry naturally succeeds by his prudence and caution in keepingwhat he has got: Northumberland fails in his enterprise from an excess of thesame quality, and is caught in the web of his own cold, dilatory policy. OwenGlendower is a masterly character. It is as bold and original as it is intelligibleand thoroughly natural. The disputes between him and Hotspur are managed

with infinite address and insight into nature. We cannot help pointing out heresome very beautiful lines, where Hotspur de-scribes the fight betweenGlendower and Mortimer.

"When on the gentle Severn's sedgy bank,In single opposition hand to hand,He did confound the best part of an hour In changing hardiment with great Glendower:

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Three times they breath'd, and three times did they drink,Upon agreement, of swift Severn's flood;Who then affrighted with their bloody looks,Ran fearfully among the trembling reeds,And hid his crisp head in the hollow bank,Blood-stained with these valiant combatants."

The peculiarity and the excellence of Shakespear's poetry is, that it seems as if he made his imagination the hand-maid of nature, and nature the plaything of his imagination. He appears to have been all the characters, and in all thesituations he describes. It is as if either he had had all their feelings, or had lentthem all his genius to express themselves. There cannot be stronger instances of this than Hotspur's rage when Henry IV. forbids him to speak of Mortimer, hisinsensibility to all that his father and uncle urge to calm him, and his fine ab-stracted apostrophe to honour, "By heaven, me-thinks it were an easy leap to

pluck bright honour from the moon," etc. After all, notwithstanding thegallantry, generosity, good temper, and idle freaks of the mad-cap Prince of Wales, we should not have been sorry if Northumberland's force had come upin time to decide the fate of the battle at Shrewsbury; at least, we alwaysheartily sympathise with Lady Percy's grief, when she exclaims,

"Had my sweet Harry had but half their numbers,To-day might I (hanging on Hotspur's neck)Have talked of Monmouth's grave."

The truth is, that we never could forgive the Prince's treatment of Falstaff;though perhaps Shakespear knew what was best, according to the history, thenature of the times, and of the man. We speak only as dramatic critics.Whatever terror the French in those days might have of Henry V., yet, to thereaders of poetry at present, Falstaff is the better man of the two. We think of him and quote him oftener

King Henry IV, Part I Commentary provides a comprehensive descriptionof every act with explanations and translations for all important quotes.

Act I. Scene I. - London. The Palace.

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King Henry IV: "So shaken as we are, so wan with care, / Find we a time for frighted peace to pant...."

A tired and drained King Henry IV explains to us that a civil war inEngland has left its mark on his kingdom. He hopes a much-delayedreligious crusade will unite his people again under one purpose.

Unfortunately the Earl of Westmoreland informs the King Henry of trouble in his land. First we learn that Mortimer, The Earl of March wascaptured in a battle with the irregular "Glendower" which resulted in athousand deaths for Mortimer's men. Next we learn that though YoungHenry Percy (Hotspur) protected Holmedon from the Earl of Douglas inthe north, Hotspur has kept the prisoners for himself rather than givethem to King Henry IV, his king.

King Henry laments that his own son is not nearly as capable as Hotspurand regrets that these two problems (Mortimer and Hotspur) will force afurther postponement of his already delayed religious crusade...

The play begins with England's current ruler, King Henry IV, speaking to theEarl of Westmoreland about the troubles of his recent rule and his plans to starta religious crusade...

The king is weary and his opening dialogue conveys the feeling that the civilstrife England has endured has taken its toll on both king and country.

King Henry IV describes this vividly when he says "So shaken as we are, sowan with care, / Find we a time for frighted peace to pant," (Line 1).

King Henry explains that his people have fought one another (Lines 4-13) witha fury "close of [to] civil butchery," (Line 13), but now, he believes his oncedivided people will "March all one way, and be no more oppos'd / Againstacquaintance," (march together and no longer fight those they know), (Line 15)

because the English people will be united together in a religious crusade againstthose enemies of Christianity in Jerusalem (Lines 18-27).

King Henry himself refers to this when he describes the purpose of his crusadeas being to "chase these pagans in those holy fields" (Line 24).

This comment is a reference to those who now inhabit the holy fields whereKing Henry explains, Jesus Christ once walked and later was crucified or "nail'd" (Line 26) for the advantage or benefit of all Christians four hundred

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years before (the time of this play is during rule of King Henry IV), (Lines 24-27).

King Henry also explains that this religious crusade is not a new project, saying"our purpose [the crusade] is a twelvemonth [one year] old," (Line 28).

King Henry now learns some unpleasant news from the Earl of Westmoreland... The crusade will again have to be postponed since news hascome that "the noble Mortimer [Earl of March]," whilst leading the men of Herefordshire against the "irregular and wild Glendower," was captured "And athousand of his people butchered;" (Line 42).

The Earl, adds that the ensuing mutilation or "shameless transformation" (Line44) performed on their corpses cannot be described without much shame in thetelling (Lines 44-46).

King Henry resigns himself to the inevitable conclusion that this current crisiswill delay "our business for the Holy Land", specifically his crusade (Line 48).

The Earl now adds that there is more bad news from the north:."On Holy-roodday, the gallant Hotspur" (Line 52) also known as the Young Henry Percycommanded King Henry's troops against "the brave Archibald, / That ever-valiant and approved Scot," (The Earl of Douglas), (Line 53) in a battle atHolmedon.

Unfortunately the messenger telling the Earl of Westmoreland this news "didtake horse," or left the scene of the battle "Uncertain of the issue any way"(uncertain who actually won), (Line 61).

King Henry now fills the Earl in on the missing points. From Sir Walter Blunt,who has just arrived or in King Henry's words who is "new lighted from hishorse," (just off his horse), (Line 63), King Henry IV has learned thatWestmoreland's news is good news.

Not only was Holmedon kept in their (King Henry's) hands (Line 65) but theEarl of Douglas was defeated with some "Ten thousand bold Scots, two andtwenty knights, / Balk'd in their own blood" or heaped up in their own blooddead from what Sir Walter Blunt could see (Line 68).

As for prisoners, King Henry IV continues, Hotspur (The Young Henry Percy)took "Mordake the Earl of Fife," the eldest son of the beaten Douglas and theEarls of Athol, Murray, Angus and Menteith.

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King Henry asks the Earl of Westmoreland, "is not this an honourable spoil? Agallant prize?" (is not this a honorable spoil or booty / loot, a gallant prize),(Line 75).

The Earl of Westmoreland agrees, saying, "It is a conquest for a prince to boastof" (Line 77).

That last line saddens King Henry who says as much (Line 78).

King Henry explains that Young Percy's victory saddens and marks him in sinthat he should envy "my Lord Northumberland" (Line 79) for being so blessedas a father to have Percy for a son, "A son who is the theme of honour'stongue;" (Line 81) whilst King Henry "by looking on the praise of him [YoungPercy]," (Line 84) can only see "riot and dishonour stain the brow [forehead] /Of my young Harry (his real name is Henry but King Henry IV calls him this)", King Henry's own son (Line 84).

King Henry wishes his son was as noble and gallant as Lord Northumberland'sson, Young Percy who defeated his enemies on the battlefield whilst his ownson did not...

King Henry IV now laments that if only "some night-tripping fairy" (a fairy)had exchanged their children in their "cradle-clothes" (toddler clothing / whenthe boys were young) (Line 88), then he would have a son he could truly be

proud of (Lines 77-91).

King Henry now asks the Earl of Westmoreland what he thinks of Hotspur or "young Percy's pride?" that he keeps the prisoners he has taken for his "ownuse" giving King Henry only Mordake the Earl of Fife rather than give them allup to his king? (Line 92).

Westmoreland explains that Young Percy's (Hotspur's) lack of respect is theresult of "his uncle's teaching," (Line 96), the Earl of Worcester whomWestmoreland describes as being "Malevolent" or opposed to King Henry IV inall aspects.

It is the Earl's influence on Young Percy (Hotspur), Westmoreland explains,that makes Young Percy "prune himself, and bristle up / The crest of youth[summon up the crest of youth] against your dignity [King Henry IV]" (Line99).

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King Henry IV now explains that he has sent for Young Percy to explainhimself, saying "for this cause a while we must neglect / Our holy purpose toJerusalem" (because of this problem we must ignore our plans for a crusade alittle longer), (Line 101).

King Henry tells Westmoreland that next Wednesday they shall hold their council in Windsor, telling Westmoreland to inform the Lords and to returnquickly for as King Henry puts it, "more is to be said and to be done / Than outof anger can be uttered" (Line 106).

Act I. Scene II. - The Same. An Apartment of the Prince's.

Prince Hal (Prince Henry): "My reformation, glittering o'er my fault, / Shallshow more goodly and attract more eyes / Than that which hath no foil to set itoff. I'll so offend to make offence a skill; / Redeeming time when men think least I will."

We are introduced to Prince Hal, or Prince Henry, the son King Henry IVcalled "Harry" in the earlier scene and the son, King Henry IV wishes wasmore like the valiant Hotspur. Far from acting as a Prince arguablyshould, Hal is keeping company with petty thieves. We are introduced toFalstaff, one such thief and Poins who is planning a robbery at Gadshill (Alocation).

Poins explains that he and Hal (both disguised) will steal what their friendshave already stolen from carriages running along Gadshill and will bothenjoy Falstaff's false explanations of what how they were robbedafterwards. In an important soliloquy, Hal reveals that though he has beenkeeping bad company, he will soon show his true colours at the righttime...

Meanwhile in Prince Henry's (Hal's) apartment in London, Prince Henry isspeaking with Falstaff (Sir John Falstaff). Falstaff introduces himself to us byasking Hal (Prince Henry) what time it is.

Prince Henry replies that Falstaff whom he describes as "fat-witted," or slowwitted "hast [has] forgotten to demand that truly which thou [you] wouldst[would or should] truly know" (Line 6), adding that unless hours were cups of sack, minutes were capons, dials the signs of leaping-houses "and the blessedsun himself a fair hot wench [women] in flame-colour'd taffeta," why should hecare? (Line 12).

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Falstaff, who refers to Prince Henry as "Hal", explains that thieves such ashimself "that take purses go by the moon and the seven stars," (Line 15),adding that should Hal one day become King of England, or "as, God save thyGrace,-majesty," (Line 19) he believes "for grace thou wilt have none,-" (for grace you shall have none), (Line 19).

This comment from Falstaff who clearly shows little respect or deference for the Prince Henry's title and position angers Hal into saying "What! none?"(Line 21).

Again Falstaff presses home his friendly insult, completely unafraid of hisfriend Prince Hal (Line 22).

Falstaff now suggests that when Prince Henry is made "king," they should both be "gentlemen of the shade, minions of the moon;" adding that men shouldconsider them both "men of good government, being governed as the sea is, byour noble and chaste mistress the moon, under whose countenance we steal"(men of good government who like the sea should be governed by the moon or the darkness under which they are allowed or able to steal), (Line 33).

Falstaff's comments that they should both steal whilst being considered men of good government, shows us that Prince Henry is certainly running with a lessthan honest crowd and certainly not the crowd one would expect to produce afair, honest and conscience future King of England.

Thus we first see Henry as a man perhaps more willing to run with interestingcompany ignoring their moral inadequacies for the thrill, excitement andinterest of living with a more interesting crowd than Prince Henry wouldotherwise know, not unlike many privileged youth today who choose friendswith exciting but often less privileged lives to bring excitement their own.

We also can see from this good natured exchange that though Prince Henrywould like to think his wits are faster than Falstaff's the opposite may well betrue.

Returning to the play, Falstaff and Hal discuss their recent activities, in particular discussing the merits of "the hostess of the tavern" (Line 46) and in amoment suggesting seriousness, Falstaff tells Prince Henry that when he isking, "Do not thou, when thou art king, hang a thief" (do not when you areking, hang a thief), (Line 70).

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The two now exchange further witticisms over the hanging of thieves, Falstaff mockingly suggesting that his relationship with the Young Prince has corruptedhim (Line 101) and that before meeting Hal, Falstaff "knew nothing;" but nowhe is damned, jokingly suggesting that his life must be given over to redeemhimself (Lines 73-115).

The Prince suggests that he sees a change in the better for Falstaff, "from praying to purse-taking" (Line 115).

Poins now enters, Prince Henry exchanging witticisms before discussing anupcoming robbery (Lines 116-136).

Poins now explains the robbery, saying that "There are pilgrims going toCanterbury with rich offerings, and traders riding to London with fat purses:"(Line 138). Poins has made meticulous plans (Lines 137-146) adding that "If you will go I will stuff your purses full of crowns; if you will not, tarry at homeand be hanged" (Line 147).

Falstaff suggests that if he does stay home, he will hang Poins for going...

Falstaff now asks Hal (Prince Henry) if he will join this Gadshill led robbery,Prince Henry coyly saying "Who, I rob? I a thief? not I, by my faith" (Line153).

Falstaff now goads Hal suggesting "There's neither honesty, manhood, nor good fellowship [friendship] in thee [you], nor thou camest not [you did notcome] of the blood royal, if thou darest not stand for ten shillings" (Line 154).

Tellingly in view of the fact that Hal is a prince with obligations of conduct,Prince Henry replies "Well, come what will, I'll tarry at home" (Line 161),choosing not to join the robbing party.

Falstaff protests that "I'll be a traitor then, when thou [you] art [are] king" (Line164), Hal telling him "I care not" (Line 165).

Poins now tells Falstaff to leave him and the Prince alone, he will convince thePrince to join them.

Falstaff now leaves for Eastcheap, one of the stops on the robbing trip, andPoins begins to convince Hal to join them saying, "I have a jest [joke] toexecute [perform] that I cannot manage alone" (Line 179).

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Poins explains that Falstaff, Bardolph, Peto and Gadshill (the person not thelocation) shall rob the men they have already described but Poins and PrinceHenry will not be there, instead they will rob them once they have the booty.Poins is very serious about this suggesting, "if you and I do not rob them, cutthis [my / Poin's] head from my shoulders" (Line 185).

The Prince however is unsure they can lose the rest of the thieves. Poins tellshim not to worry; they will appoint a place to meet, not turn up and Falstaff andcompany will continue the robbery without them (Lines 186-193).

The Prince is still worried they will be identified. Poins again tells the Princenot to worry, they will hide their horses and Poins has brought cases of "buckram" to "inmask our noted outward garments" or to camouflage their distinguishing clothes from Falstaff and company (Lines 197-201).

Again Hal has his doubts, saying he doubts they will be easy to steal from (Line202).

Poins again has the answer. Two of them Poins is certain are cowards and thethird is unlikely to fight "longer than he sees reason," (Line 204).

Poins now explains that the virtue or fun of this little jest or joke will be the"incomprehensible lies that this same fat rogue [Falstaff] will tell us when wemeet at supper: how thirty, at least, he fought with; what wards, what blows,what extremities he endured;" (how thirty men attacked him with made updetails) and in the reproof or retelling of what really happened, will lie the jestor joke on Falstaff, Poins explains (Lines 202-212).

The Prince is convinced, he will go with Poins, telling him to meet with himtomorrow night at Eastcheap, where he will have supper.

Now alone, Prince Henry tells us what steel his character is truly made from...

Prince Henry explains to us that while he has indeed been idle (Lines 217-229),he will soon cast off this lazy lifestyle (Line 230).

He explains that he knows he has been keeping bad company, describing hiskeeping bad company as akin to the sun which allows itself to be smothered by"the base contagious clouds" (Line 220), (a metaphor for his bad company), butwhich will rid itself of these contaminants when the sun chooses again to seeand show itself for what it really is (Lines 218-225).

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Prince Henry also adds that this change of character will shine like "brightmetal on a sullen ground," (Line 234), the more so because it is unexpected andmore than if he had been truly honorable to begin with (Line 237), adding that

before he does this, he will offend so much as to make it seem a skill, only thenreforming when everyone least expects it.

Prince Henry ends the scene saying:

"My reformation, glittering o'er [over] my fault, / Shall show more goodly andattract more eyes / Than that which hath no foil to set it off. I'll so offend tomake offence a skill; / Redeeming time when men think least I will" (Lines235-239).

Act I. Scene III. - The Same. The Palace.

King Henry: "I do see / Danger and disobedience in thine eye."

King Henry punishes the Earl of Worcester, The Earl of Northumberlandand Hotspur (Young Henry Percy, Northumberland's son) for forgettingtheir obligations to the king. Hotspur and father offer the prisoners gladly,arguing their refusal to do so was a misunderstanding.

King Henry IV disagrees, believing Hotspur (Young Henry) wanted to usethe prisoners to lever King Henry IV into paying the ransom of LordMortimer, his brother-in-law. King Henry IV will not, arguing that thisman betrayed his forces by marrying the daughter of Glendower, hisenemy on the battlefield!

Hotspur is ordered to hand over the prisoners but refuses. Worcestersuggests a plan to deal with King Henry, which involves Douglas,Glendower and the Archbishop of York against King Henry. Hotspur willhand over the prisoners to buy time...

Back at the King Henry's palace, an angry King Henry IV is verbally punishingThe Earl of Worcester (Lines 1-13), The Earl of Northhumberland and his sonYoung Percy (Hotspur).

He reminds them all that they have "tread upon my patience:" (Line 4) warningthem that he will use force to bring them into line if necessary (Lines 1-9).

This leads Worcester to remind King Henry IV that his house (The Percyfamily) does not deserve "The scourge of greatness to be used on it;" (the king's

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forces to be used against it), (Line 11) adding that the very greatness (KingHenry's throne) King Henry IV now threatens them with would not have been

possible without their help (Lines 10-12).

King Henry IV now tells Worcester to "get thee gone;" or leave since he sees"Danger and disobedience in thine [your] eye" (Line 16).

Turning to Northhumberland, King Henry hears Northhumberland voice theopinion that the prisoners his son "Harry Percy" (Hotspur, Young Henry) took,which are now demanded by King Henry IV are not denied more strongly tothe him than they are offered.

Northhumberland goes on to suggest that envy or "misprison" is guilty of thisfault and not his son (Lines 23-28).

Hotspur (called Harry by his father) now defends himself saying, "I did deny[to the king] no prisoners:" (Line 29) but also that he was greeted by a manshortly after battle requesting the prisoners for the king.

Unfortunately this "popinjay," (Line 50) so angered him with his noble disdainfor the smells and scenes of battle that Hotspur did answer this manrepresenting the king somewhat "neglectingly, [rudely / disrespectfully]",Hotspur asking that this incident does not come between him and his love of hismajesty, King Henry IV (Lines 29-69).

Sir Walter Blunt now speaks, suggesting to the king that "Whatever HarryPercy then had said / To such a person and in such a place," (Line 71) be bestforgotten (Lines 70-76).

King Henry now replies to all this, saying "yet he [Hotspur] doth [does] denyhis prisoners, / But with proviso and exception," suggesting that it wasHotspur's intent to use the prisoners to levy King Henry IV into providing theransom for his brother-in-law Mortimer, the Earl of March and the very manwho "wilfully betray'd" the forces he led (Line 81).

On top of all this, King Henry IV reminds all present that Mortimer then wenton to marry the daughter of the "damn'd Glendower," (Line 83) the man he ledhis forces to fight.

King Henry now asks, "Shall our coffers [funds] then / Be emptied to redeem atraitor home?" (Line 86).

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Hotspur now defends his brother in law vigorously, explaining that the "nobleMortimer "(Line 111) is no traitor, having taken wounds in his battle againstGlendower (Lines 93-112).

King Henry IV, though is far from convinced, explaining to Percy (Hotspur)that Mortimer never met with Glendower (Line 114) and now instructingHotspur to send his prisoners to him as quickly as possible, telling Hotspur "Send me your prisoners with the speediest means, / Or you shall hear in such akind from me / As will displease you" (send me your prisoners as quickly as

possible or you will hear from me in a way I am sure you will not like), (Line120).

King Henry IV, Sir Walter Blunt and the Henry's train or followers now depart,leaving a furious Hotspur who refuses to obey his king.

Hotspur is adamant nothing will change his mind, adding that "if the devilcome and roar for them [the prisoners], I will not send them: I will after straight/ And tell him so; for I will ease my heart, / Albeit I make a hazard of my head"(if the devil himself asks for the prisoners, I will not give them. I will tell himthis straight for I will ease my heart even if I now place my head and my life atrisk), (Line 125).

Northhumberland, Hotspur's father tries to tell his son to calm down butWorcester now returns and Hotspur starts another outburst, pledging his loyaltyto Mortimer and saying "I will lift the down-trod [downtrodden] Mortimer / Ashigh i' [in] the air as this unthankful king," (Line 136).

Hotspur now mentions that King Henry turned pale at the mention of theransom for Mortimer, suggesting that King Henry IV was "Trembling even atthe name of Mortimer" (Line 144).

Worcester explains why, saying he is not surprised, asking "was he not proclaim'd [proclaimed] / By Richard [King Henry's predecessor, Richard II]that dead is the next of blood?" (was he not proclaimed as the successor toRichard II, the last king), (Line 146).

Worcester explains that King Henry IV has very good reason to fear Mortimer.King Richard II, whom King Henry IV replaced as King of England with thehelp of the Percies, named Mortimer as his successor. Thus Mortimer represents a threat to the legitimacy of King Henry's rule over England.

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Northhumberland, Worcester and Hotspur now retell recent history, explainingthat Richard II made that proclamation shortly before his Irish expedition after which he returned to England and was soon after deposed (removed from

power) and then murdered (Lines 147-152).

Worcester echoes how the death of Richard II scandalized the "world's widemouth" (Line 153) and Hotspur asks whether King Richard II did "Proclaim my

brother Edmund Mortimer / Heir to the crown?" (Line 156) learning that he didand that King Henry IV has forgotten the Percy family who helped him becomeking notably in the Bolingbroke revolt (Line 176).

Worcester now interrupts to suggest a dark and secret plan which he describesas "a secret book," to be unclasped or opened of a matter both dangerous anddeep (Lines 187-193).

Hotspur is enthusiastic, especially since it involves honor (Line 196) and because it involves danger (Line 195).

Northhumberland now remarks that the thought of some great exploit drivesHotspur beyond the bounds of patience (Line 200), Hotspur now confirmingthis (Lines 201-211).

Hotspur (Young Percy, Young Henry, Harry) now mentions that he will keepall his Scottish prisoners, Hotspur saying that for refusing him the Mortimer'sransom or even to speak Mortimer's name, Hotspur will "holla 'Mortimer!'" inKing Henry's ear when he is asleep (Lines 219-226).

Hotspur pledges to defy "this Bolingbroke: / And that same sword-and-buckler Prince of Wales," (Prince Henry), (Line 229) who Hotspur believes the kingdoes not even like and would be happy if he were poisoned.

Northumberland now succeeds in cooling down his hot headed son, allowingWorcester to instruct him to return the prisoners to King Henry IV to calm himdown and throw the king off guard whilst he also is to make peace withDouglas through his son, to secure them Scottish support and forces for their

plan (Lines 260-263).

Worcester now tells Northhumberland to seek out the Archbishop of York whohas taken his brother's death hard. Hotspur is excited that soon the power of "Scotland and of York," will soon join with Mortimer (Line 281).

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Worcester now sets Northhumberland and son Hotspur (Young Percy) on their separate ways, telling them to be ready to receive word, which could be sudden,that the plan to remove King Henry is afoot.

At this point, Worcester explains that he will go to Glendower and LordMortimer where Douglas and "our powers at once,- / As I will fashion it,-shallhappily meet," (Line 298) to fight united against King Henry described as"much uncertainty" (Line 300)

Act II. Scene I. - Rochester. An Inn-Yard.

Early in the morning, a Chamberlain who is an informer, informs Gadshill(the person) at an Inn, of a rich carriage heading their way, importantinformation for their upcoming robbery...

Act II opens to the scene of two Carriers who complain that the Inn or hotel /motel is not as good as it once was, since a certain Robin Ostler died (Line 12).

The First Carrier also makes a reference to the time of day, saying that"Charles' Wain is over the new chimney, and yet our horse not packed", this

being a celestial reference suggesting it is early morning (Line 2).

The First Carrier explains that a price rise in the cost of oats ruined the man(Robin Ostler), (Line 14), the Second Carrier saying he doubts there is a housein all of "London road" (Line 16) with more fleas in it (Lines 16-17).

The two Carriers now depart having finished packing their horses to deliver produce to the London markets (Lines 46-51), the First Carrier deliveringturkeys (Line 29) and the Second, delivering "a gammon of bacon and tworazes of ginger, to be delivered as far as Charing-cross" (Line 26).

Gadshill now meets the two Carriers and having greeted them, asks to borrowtheir lantern, referred to in the text as a "lanthorn," (Line 38). The two Carriersrefuse, the Second Carrier saying "I'll see thee [you] hanged first" (I'll see youhanged first before I lend my lantern), (Line 45), before he gives his lanternover to Gadshill.

With the Carriers now departed (Line 51), Gadshill calls out "What, ho!chamberlain!" (Line 52) and slowly the Chamberlain, an informer who knowsGadshill thieving nature, appears (Lines 53-57).

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The Chamberlain explains to Gadshill that what he told him yesterday, remainsfact; "a franklin [a landlord of moderate wealth] in the wild of Kent [a part of England] hath [has] brought three hundred marks with him in gold:" (Line 60).

The Chamberlain knows this from a conversation he overheard between thefranklin and one of his company (Line 60).

The Chamberlain now tells Gadshill that this franklin and company are alreadyawake and calling for "eggs and butter:" (Line 66), and they will be leaving theinn soon....

The Chamberlain now makes an off hand remark about the "hangman;", areference to Gadshill facing hanging if caught for robbery (Lines 69-72).

Gadshill, however does not fear hanging (Lines 72-106) because Gadshill isaccompanied by men of higher social standing, Gadshill arguing that it is hisassociation with "nobility and tranquillity," such as Prince Hal (not mentioned

by name) instead of lowly "foot-land-rakers," that will prevent him ever beinghanged (Lines 73-91).

Act II. Scene II. - The Road by Gadshill.

Hal and Poins meet for their robbery of their friend's robbery takings.Poins explains that he has removed Falstaff's horse. The thieves spilt intotwo groups, Poins and Hal taking the low ground. Falstaff, Gadshill,Bardolph and Peto successfully rob the passing travelers and are thenrobbed themselves by a disguised Poins and Hal. With their horses taken,Poins and Hal will have to wait for their friends to meet them in London;they will have to walk there empty handed!

Prince Henry (Hal) has now meet up with Poins, learning from him that Poinshas "removed Falstaff's horse," (Line 1), the result of which is to leave Falstaff fretting about confused like "a gummed velvet" (Line 3).

The horseless Falstaff now enters, Falstaff calling for Poins who now hasretreated into the darkness away from Falstaff's view. Falstaff is not amused,shouting "Poins! Poins, and be hanged! Poins!" (Line 5), Prince Henry tellingFalstaff to calm down.

Falstaff asks Prince Hal or Henry where Poins is, Hal agreeing to find him(Line 9).

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This now leaves Falstaff alone to complain about Poins. First Poins hasremoved his horse, hiding him where Falstaff cannot find it. Falstaff makes itclear he has little love for Poins (Lines 11-33) whilst cursing "A plague upon't[upon it] when thieves cannot be true one to another! [each other]" (Line 31).

Prince Henry now returns, telling Falstaff "Peace, ye [you] fat-guts!" (Line 35),and advising Falstaff to put "thine [your] ear close to the ground," in order to

better hear the approach of their victims, the "travellers" (Line 38) along their road (Line 36).

Falstaff now asks Hal to find and bring his horse to him, Hal refusing andearning Falstaff's wrath in the form of a none to serious insult (Lines 46-53).

Gadshill, (Line 54) Bardolph and Peto (Lines 56) now arrive, Gadshillremarking that "there's money of the king's coming down the hill; 'tis [it is]going to the king's exchequer" (Line 60), by which Gadshill means, thetravelers are approaching, they had better be quick and rob them...

Falstaff briefly disputes this, saying the money before them is heading for "theking's tavern" (Line 62).

Prince Henry now suggests Gadshill, Falstaff, Peto and Bardolph stop and stealfrom the travelers in the narrow lane, whilst Ned Poins and the Prince will walk or wait on lower ground. If the travelers escape the four of them, they will runinto Henry and Poins (Line 65-68).

We learn from Gadshill that the travelers number roughly "Some eight or ten"(Line 70) people and Falstaff initially hesitates because of this, saying"'Zounds! will they not rob us?" (Line 71) but decides to stand fast when askedif he is a coward by Hal (Prince Henry), (Line 72).

Poins wishes Falstaff well, and the two groups (Gadshill, Falstaff, Peto andBardolph and Poins and Prince Henry) set off on their separate ways (Line 80).

The Prince now asks Poins for their disguises, the two now exiting our view.

Meanwhile, we see several travelers making their way along the narrow road.The thieves in unison shout, "Stand!" (Line 89), and Falstaff's commands thathis group strike down these travelers and cut their throats, succeeds in totallyterrifying the travelers whom are quickly robbed and tied up, our thieves nowdeparting from view (Lines 90-101).

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The Prince with Poins now arrive, noting that the travelers have been robbedand bound. Prince Henry also remarks how if they can now rob the thieves andhead merrily off to London, the result would be arguments for a week, laughter for a month "and a good jest for ever" (Lines 102-106).

Poins tells Henry (Hal) to stay close, he hears the thieves coming.

Falstaff is jubilant, they stole the money without incident and Falstaff nowtakes time to insult Henry and especially Poins as cowards.

At this exact point, (Line 113), Prince Henry in disguise, shouts "Your money!", Poins calling his friends "Villains" (Lines 113-114).

A brief skirmish ensues, the Prince and Poins setting upon or attacking thegroup of four who run away, Falstaff having taken a few blows, leaving all the

booty or money behind.

The Prince and Poins head to their waiting horses, the Prince explaining thateach thief has headed his separate way for fear of further attack, the Princeremarking of the terrified Falstaff that "Were't [were it] not for laughing Ishould pity him" (Line 121).

They also both relish the fact that Falstaff "sweats to death / And lards the leanearth as he walks along:" all the way to London by foot since Poins and PrinceHenry have removed Falstaff's horse (Line 120).

Act II. Scene III. - Warkworth. A Room in the Castle.

Hotspur reads a letter confirming that a nobleman they have approachedwill not join their cause against King Henry IV, angering Hotspur.Hotspur worries that this nobleman could betray them, revealing theirplans to King Henry. Hotspur's wife resents being neglected by herhusband...

The scene opens with Hotspur reading a letter from a nobleman he has sought

the support of against King Henry. The letter does not read well for Hotspur who notes the nobleman is hesitant to join him.

Hotspur notes this himself when he asks how this nobleman could be"contented;" yet not pledge his support for him (Lines 1-7).

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The nobleman's next line further offends Hotspur since it says "The purposeyou undertake [the mission or purpose you are about to proceed with] isdangerous;-" (Line 8).

Hotspur is not impressed with this remark, of course challenging King HenryIV is dangerous, speaking back to the Lord's letter by saying "my lord fool, outof this nettle, danger, we pluck this flower, safety" (my foolish lord, from thisdangerous course of action, we will gain safety), (Line 12).

Hotspur continues to read the letter which tells him "The purpose youundertake is dangerous; the friends you have named uncertain; the time itself unsorted [undecided]; and your whole plot too light for the counterpoise of sogreat an opposition" (Line 13-16).

This criticism, that Hotspur's plan is dangerous and that his allies cannot becounted on in addition to uncertainty over the time of the attack on King Henry,enrages Hotspur who calls the nobleman a "shallow cowardly hind," (Line 18).

Hotspur replies verbally to the nobleman's letter by saying their plan isexcellent, he has very good friends that can be counted on, asking "What afrosty-spirited rogue is this!" (Line 24) who would criticise his plan.

Hotspur now goes on to describe the fact that the Lord of York himself supports the plan, adding that if he were near this nobleman, he would "brain[bash] him with his lady's fan" (Line 26).

Hotspur wonders how this man can question the strength of his forces whenthey number his father, his uncle and himself as well as Lord EdmundMortimer, the already mentioned Lord of York and Owen Glendower andDouglas.

Hotspur also wonders aloud that has he not received letters from all of themsaying they will meet with him on the ninth of next month, adding that some of his forces are in place already (Line 31).

Now Hotspur begins to worry... What will stop this nobleman from warning theking of his plans? (Line 35). Soon, however, Hotspur calms down, throwingcare to the wind by saying:

"Hang him! [The nobleman] let him tell the king; we are prepared. I will setforth to-night [head off tonight] " (Line 40).

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Lady Percy now enters (Line 41); Hotspur telling his Kate that he must leaveher within two hours (Line 41).

Lady Percy (Kate) is extremely worried for her husband, and asks him why heis alone, and "For what offence have I this fortnight been / A banish'd[banished] woman from my Harry's bed?" (Line 44).

Lady Percy wants to know why she is being denied her husband's stomach, pleasure and his golden sleep and so often is left alone, neglected (Line 45).

She tells Hotspur she has heard rumors of "iron wars," (Line 53), wondering if her husband is somehow involved (Lines 52-62).

Lady Percy is certain "Some heavy [serious] business hath [has] my lord inhand," concluding that "I must know it, else he [Hotspur] loves me not" (Line63).

Hotspur and Lady Percy now speak, Lady Percy trying in vain to learn what'sreally going on (Lines 78-88). She suspects her brother Mortimer hassomething to do with it (Line 85) but Hotspur avoids answering her questions,telling his wife that he trusts her and that where he is going, Lady Percy willsoon follow, tomorrow (Line 120).

Hotspur now asks his wife if this news will "content" or satisfy her, Lady Percyreplying "It must, of force" (it must, by force since I have no other choice),(Line 123).

Act II. Scene IV. - Eastcheap. A Room in the Boar's Head Tavern.

Prince Hal: "I am not yet of Percy's mind, the Hotspur of the North; he that killsme some six or seven dozen of Scots at a breakfast, washes his hands, and saysto his wife, 'Fie upon this quiet life! I want work.'"

Hal and Poins are at the Boar's Head Tavern waiting for their lucklessfriends Falstaff, Gadshill, Bardolph and Peto to arrive and looking

forward to laughing at Falstaff's lies as to how they allowed themselves tobe robbed. In the meanwhile, Poins and Hal give inn servant Francis therun around and Hal reveals his disdain of royal title, displaying a commontouch.

Tellingly, Hal reveals his envy of Hotspur, suggesting he wishes he wasmore like him... Falstaff and friends arrive, Falstaff being exposed as a liar

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to much amusement. Falstaff argues that he knew Hal was robbing himand thus allowed himself to be robbed.

Hal learns that Owen Glendower, his son in law Mortimer, OldNorthumberland, his son Hotspur and "that sprightly Scot of Scots,Douglas," have turned against King Henry (The Percy revolt / rebellion).Falstaff is wanted for a robbery. Hal decides to pay back Falstaff'srobbery victims and to have Falstaff lead troops against this revolt...

The scene opens with Poins and Prince Henry (Hal) speaking at the Boar'sHead Tavern in Eastcheap. Poins asks Hal where he has been, learning thatPrince Henry (Hal) has been making friends with the locals whom he describesas "three or four loggerheads amongst three or four score hogsheads" (Line 4).

Henry in particular, is proud of the fact that he has been named a "sworn brother" (Line 6) and can call three of the locals by their "christen names,"(first names) which are "Tom, Dick and Francis" (Line 6), perhaps suggestingthat Prince Henry has the common touch or an ability to understand and speak to his people.

Prince Henry explains further how proud he is to be accepted not as the Princeof Wales but rather as "the king of courtesy;" (Line 7) and not a "proud Jack,"(Line 8) like Falstaff, but rather a "Corinthian, a lad of mettle, a good boy,-"(Line 8), this telling us a great deal about how Prince Henry wants to berespected; not by his position as Prince of Wales but by his own personality.

After finishing his speech on how the good men of Eastcheap respect him,(Lines 4-37) Prince Henry speaks to Francis, one of the servants at the Boar'sHead Tavern.

After speaking to Francis for a while (again displaying his common touch for the people of his land), the Prince with Poins' help play a game on the haplessFrancis by calling for him repeatedly.

This would not normally be a problem except that both are at differentlocations in the tavern and so Francis is run ragged to and from Poins andHenry and vice versa each time one of them calls him, always answering hismasters with the line "anon [immediately], anon, sir."

This charade finally ends when both Poins and Henry calls out Francis' name,the poor servant not knowing whom to go to, since he wishes to please them

both (Lines 43-89).

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The arrival of Falstaff and company is now announced by Vintner (Lines 91-97), Prince Henry telling Vintner to let them wait by the door for a little while

before letting them in (Line 97).

Poins returns and Henry and Poins agree that soon they will both be "As merryas crickets," (Line 101) because soon they will hear Falstaff's attempts to lie hisway out of being robbed by them.

Francis now returns, holding a wineglass and saying "Anon, anon, sir" clearlyfatigued from his earlier running (Line 111). This naturally causes Henry toremark how erratic his behavior is. We of course know better, it is Poins' andHenry's relentless teasing that has driven the poor Poins to exhaustion.

The Prince describes Francis in some detail (Lines 112-127), remarking that his"industry is up-stairs and downstairs;" (Line 113).

Significantly, Prince Henry now remarks that "I am not yet of Percy's mind, theHotspur of the North; he that kills me some six or seven dozen of Scots at a

breakfast, washes his hands, and says to his wife, 'Fie upon this quiet life! Iwant work'" (Line 115).

This quote is important for several reasons...

First it reminds us of the comparison made between Henry and Hotspur byKing Henry IV earlier; Hotspur is brave, Prince Henry is squandering his life.We can also sense that this line is no accident since it foreshadows the fact thatthese two men's destinies are linked. They will clash by the end of this play,determining its outcome.

Secondly the quote highlights Prince Henry's own grasp on who he is(remember Act I, Scene II, Lines 217-239?) and perhaps what he would prefer to be.

Finally the quote is a useful insight into the way Shakespeare portrays hischaracters to us. Rather than just rely on Prince Henry's soliloquies to hear Henry's own thoughts, Shakespeare uses verbal slips as well.

Today when a person lets out a remark that reveals their inner thoughts, we callit a "Freudian slip" after the famous and influential psychologist SigmundFreud who pioneered the idea of the subconscious and subconscious thought(underlying thought).

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Thus Shakespeare's uses the Henry's own words to convey his thoughts aboutHotspur and this quote shows how Shakespeare uses a character's own dialogueto convey thought and not just by use of soliloquies and actions...

Returning to the play, Falstaff, Gadshill, Bardolph, Peto and Francis enter (Line128), Falstaff calling out "A plague of all cowards," (Line 134), which is hisway of complaining about all the cowardice he sees around him.

Nonetheless, Falstaff still finds time to ask for a cup of sack (Line 130) andcomments that there are only three decent men in all of England and one of them (Falstaff) "is fat and grows old:" (Line 146).

The Prince and Falstaff now exchange less than serious insults (Lines 152-176)at which point, Prince Henry innocently asks Falstaff, "What's the matter?"(Line 177).

We learn from Falstaff that he did not successfully rob the travelers, the Princeasking where the money is...

Falstaff now explains to the Prince the truth or rather his version of it.

Falstaff explains the money his gang stole was stolen from him, first by ahundred men (Line 183) but each time the Prince questions him, Falstaff andGadshill drop the figure to a dozen (Line 196) then upwards to sixteen (Line197), then six or seven (Line 204) and then fifty (Line 208).

At this point, Falstaff stretches the truth even further by explaining that he iscertain he killed two of the thieves who were wearing "buckram suits" (Henryand Poins of course), (Line 216), Falstaff again changing the number of thievesto four men in buckram suits (Line 221) then seven (Line 228) and then nine(Line 240).

The Prince is enjoying all this, remarking of Falstaff's latest change of figures,"O monstrous! eleven buckram men grown out of two" (the original number of

buckram suits), (Line 248).

Prince Henry now tells Falstaff that he is lying (Line 253), Prince Henry tellingFalstaff that he and Poins were the real thieves and asking Falstaff how hecould possibly redeem himself from the shame of running away from two menwhen Falstaff's group numbered four and from his terrible lying (Lines 283-296).

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Amazingly, Falstaff does redeem himself by saying he was only a coward because "instinct;" told him that one of thieves was Prince Henry or thesuccessor to the throne (Lines 296-317).

Falstaff could not kill the future King of England now could he? Thus Falstaff and Prince Henry put the issue to bed (forget the issue) and Mistress Quicklyannounces a nobleman has news for the Prince.

Falstaff on Henry's request leaves to "send him [the nobleman] packing" (Line331) giving Henry the opportunity to tease Bardolph and Peto for running away

because of "instinct," (Line 333-335). Peto and Bardolph now sheepishlyexplain that Falstaff pushed them into backing up his story.

A Bard now points the Prince in the direction of some meteors (shooting stars),asking the Prince what it could mean. The Prince answers "Hot livers and cold

purses" (Line 360).

Falstaff now returns from dismissing the nobleman, telling Prince Henry that"There's villanous news abroad:" (there's trouble abroad), (Line 370) and thatPrince Henry must go to his father's court tomorrow.

Falstaff explains to Henry, that Percy, "That same mad fellow of the north,"(Line 378), Owen Glendower, his son in law Mortimer, Old Northumberlandand "that sprightly Scot of Scots, Douglas," (Line 384) have turned againstKing Henry IV (The Percy revolt).

Falstaff describes the effect of all this by saying King Henry's beard has turnedwhite at this news and that land is now very cheap (because of the threat of civil war), (Line 399-400).

Hal or Henry appears quite unaffected by all this, so much so that Falstaff asksHal "art [are] thou [you] not horribly afeard [afraid]?" since as heir apparent(successor to the throne), Henry can count on Douglas, Percy (Hotspur) andGlendower as his enemies (Line 407).

Prince Henry says "Not a whit [not a bit], i' faith [in faith]; I lack some of thy[your] instinct" (Line 413).

Falstaff and Henry now practice Henry's responses to his father tomorrow,Falstaff playing King Henry IV (Lines 414-535).

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Bardolph now interrupts, bringing news that a sheriff "with a most monstrouswatch is at the door" of the tavern (Line 537).

Falstaff hides at Henry's request behind an arras (a curtain forming an enclosureor wall) whilst the rest are told to hide upstairs. Prince Henry and Peto nowface the sheriff and his Carrier who are looking for several men one of which isdescribed as being "As fat as butter" (Falstaff) (Line 568).

Prince Harry convinces the Sheriff and Carrier that not only is the fat man notat the tavern, but that he has employed Falstaff and will answer personally for any crimes, Falstaff may have committed (Lines 569-575).

The Sheriff informs Henry that two gentleman have lost "three hundred marks"(Line 577), the Prince agreeing that this is a crime Falstaff (not named) would

be answerable for if he did it.

The Sheriff and Carrier now leave, Henry and Peto finding that Falstaff hasfallen asleep behind the arras (Line 585).

Henry orders Peto to search Falstaff's pockets (Line 587), finding only a bill for food and a great deal of sack.

Henry now has an idea... He will give Falstaff a company of men to leadagainst the Percy rebels and decides that the money they stole will be returned"with advantage" (with more), (Line 607) to the original owners. Henry alsoannounces that he will go to his father's court tomorrow.

Act III. Scene I. - Bangor. A Room in the Archdaecon's House.

The rebels divide up England. Mortimer is to have the south of England,Glendower the west and Hotspur who represents the powerful Percyfamily will have the north. Glendower and Hotspur squabble over theirterritories but eventually compromise. Hotspur's wife Kate is not soblindly loving of her husband as is Mortimer's wife, Lady Mortimer...

Act III begins with the scene of Hotspur, Worcester, Mortimer and Glendower discussing their future plans for themselves and England...

Mortimer is confident that their revolt will succeed, opening the scene with theline, "These promises are fair, the parties sure, / And our induction full of

prosperous hope" (Line 1).

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Hotspur now invites Lord Mortimer, "cousin Glendower," and "uncleWorcester:" to sit down to discuss their plans on a map which Hotspur nowrealizes he has just forgotten (Line 4).

Glendower tells "cousin Percy;" (Hotspur) that he has found the map andGlendower and Hotspur describe each other politely (Lines 3-11) beforeGlendower increasingly describes himself as unique whilst Hotspur mocks thisclaim repeatedly (Lines 6-68).

Hotspur's mockery of Glendower goes on for some time, but is clearly notserious in nature. It does however start to annoy Mortimer (Line 52) who later says, "Come, come; / No more of this unprofitable chat" (Line 64).

By this, Mortimer means for Hotspur and Glendower to stop wasting time for they have more important decisions to make, namely how England shall bedivided between the three of them (The Percy family, Glendower andMortimer).

Glendower now begins the division, saying "Come, here's the map: / Shall wedivide our right / According to our threefold order ta'en?" (Line 72).

Mortimer is to have the south of England (Lines 73-76), the west to Glendower (Lines 77-79), leaving the north to Hotspur who represents the Percies (Line80).

Mortimer now takes charge, outlining what must now be done... Mortimer,Hotspur (described as Young Percy) and Worcester will leave tomorrow to seeHotspur's father and the Scottish forces waiting for them at Shrewsbury (Lines84-87).

Mortimer also adds that Glendower is not yet ready (Line 88) but that theyshould not need him in the next fortnight anyway.

Hotspur now complains about the division of England, wanting more land sincethe Trent river (Line 104) bordering their territories cuts Hotspur off from someland he feels he deserves (Lines 97-106). Glendower initially disagrees (Line107), both men standing their ground but soon the two compromise.

The formerly quarreling men are now joined by Lady Percy (Mortimer's sister and Hotspur's wife) and Lady Mortimer (Glendower's daughter) whomGlendower explains is saddened that Mortimer must part with her (Line 193).

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We learn that communication is a problem for this couple, since Mortimer canonly speak English, whilst Lady Mortimer can only speak Welsh (Line 192).

Mortimer explains that he understands her nonetheless (Line 200-210),Glendower helpfully translating since as Lady Mortimer's father, he knowsWelsh. He says she wishes to sing him a song, which Mortimer happily hearsaccompanied to some music provided by Glendower who simply said a fewWelsh words; this prompts Hotspur to say the devil must know Welsh, sincemusic is now heard....

Meanwhile, Hotspur tries to encourage his wife Kate to be similarly tender;Lady Percy (Kate) making it quite clear she does not blindly love Hotspur inquite the same way Lady Mortimer clearly loves her husband (Lines 232-248).

Percy even tries to convince his wife to sing for him, earning himself a veryfirm no for his troubles (Lines 250-265) .

Annoyed, Percy brings this scene to a close by announcing he will sign the present paperwork or "indentures" (Line 263) and be off by horse within twohours.

Glendower also alludes to Hotspur's well-known rashness (Line 268).

Act III. Scene II. - London. A Room in the Palace.

King Henry IV criticizes his son, Prince Hal for wasting time with his life.He warns him that Hotspur may have a greater claim to be king by hisactions than Hal will by right alone, if Hal continues to waste time whilemen like Hotspur earn the people's admiration just as King Henry IVhimself did, allowing him to replace Richard II.

Hal assures King Henry IV that he will defeat Hotspur, overjoying hisfather. We learn that Douglas and the English rebels have met atShrewsbury representing a very powerful force. Hal is to set off onWednesday, his father on Thursday to meet this threat. King Henry will

set off for Bridgenorth whilst Harry will march through Gloucestershirewith all their forces ultimately meeting at Bridgenorth.

Meanwhile at King Henry's palace, Prince Henry is catching up with hisfather... Asking his Lords to leave, King Henry IV explains his dissatisfactionwith his wayward son. King Henry IV begins by saying "I know not whether God will have it so, / For some displeasing service I have done, / That, in his

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secret doom, out of my blood / He'll breed revengement and a scourge for me;"(Line 4), implying that perhaps Prince Henry was made wayward by God as a

punishment for the King Henry's past deeds (refer to Richard II).

King Henry IV now describes Prince Henry's behavior in fairly detailed terms,describing Hal as having "lewd," behavior, having friends described as "rudesociety," and indulging in "barren pleasures," (Lines 11-17).

King Henry asks Hal how his actions can be explained by anything but God punishing him for his past actions.

Prince Henry defends himself, claiming that while he is not totally innocent of what his father has described, the stories have certainly been exaggeratedsomewhat (Lines 18-28).

King Henry IV is not convinced, reminding his son that his wayward behavior have led to his losing a place in council, leading to his brother replacing him(Line 32-33), adding that Hal's absence have made him a stranger to "the hearts/ Of all the court and princes of my [King Henry's] blood" (Line 35).

King Henry IV now explains that if he had wasted his time with such "vulgar company," as that which Prince Henry keeps (Line 41), he might never haveearned the respect of the English people that helped him replace King RichardII. King Henry IV now describes Hal's behavior as being very similar to KingRichard II's that led to King Richard II ultimately losing his kingdom.

Deepening his observation, King Henry now tells Hal that as much as herepresents King Richard II, he himself was very much like Hotspur at the sameage (Line 96), who leads "ancient lords and reverend bishops on / To bloody

battles and to bruising arms" and who has earned "never-dying honour" againstthe "renowned [well-known] Douglas!" (Line 107).

King Henry IV warns Hal that Hotspur by his actions "hath [has] more worthyinterest to the state / Than thou [you] the shadow of succession;" (Line 99). Justas Hal may have a right to the throne, Hotspur like the young King Henry IVmay have a greater claim by the actions and respect he has earned but notinherited by title.

Hal has certainly been affected by this bleak description of his character andtells King Henry that " I will redeem all this on Percy's head, / And in theclosing of some glorious day / Be bold to tell you that I am your son;" (I'll

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redeem all of my past actions by killing Hotspur and at the close of thisglorious day, I will be so bold as to tell you I am indeed your son), (Line 132).

Hal even goes as far as to describe his defeat of Hotspur as "this northern youthexchange" (Line 144) adding that he will "tear the reckoning from his[Hotspur's] heart" (Line 152).

Delighted that from his point of view, his son is finally starting to act like one,King Henry IV says that if a hundred thousand rebels die in this, "Thou [you]shalt [shall] have charge and sovereign trust herein [from this point]" (Line160).

Sir Walter Blunt arrives, informing all that Douglas and the English rebels havemet at Shrewsbury representing a very powerful force.

King Henry now announces that the Earl of Westmoreland and Lord John of Lancaster have already been dispatched, telling Hal to set off next Wednesday,whilst the King himself will leave on Thursday.

King Henry IV also announces that he will set off for Bridgenorth whilst Harrywill march through Gloucestershire with all their forces ultimately meeting atBridgenorth (Lines 170-180).

Act III. Scene III. - Eastcheap. A Room in the Boar's Head Tavern.

Prince Hal: "The land is burning; Percy stands on high; / And either we or theymust lower lie."

At the Boar's Head Tavern, Falstaff is told to pay his bills by an angryMistress Quickly. Falstaff complains that he has no money, his pocket waspicked, cursing Hal in the process. Hal arrives, explaining that he repaidthose Falstaff stole from and that he was the one who picked Falstaff'spocket. Falstaff is placed in command of some men, reluctantly becoming asoldier. Hal organizes preparations for the upcoming battle...

The scene opens to Falstaff questioning Bardolph on whether he has physicallydeclined since their last action (the robbery).

Falstaff: "Bardolph, am I not fallen away vilely [badly] since this last action[the robbery]? do I not bate? do I not dwindle?" (Line 1).

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This questioning continues (Lines 1-23), Bardolph telling Falstaff that he is fat(Line 24). Falstaff responds by telling his friend Bardolph that as their admiralso to speak, he bears a lanthorn or lamp, adding that unlike an Admiral it islocated on his nose! (Lines 27-31).

Falstaff now describes Bardolph as "the Knight of the Burning Lamp" (Line31). Bardolph answers that his face does Falstaff no harm or insult (Line 32).Falstaff now continues his joke agreeing with Bardolph.

His nose does indeed do no harm but helps him to see in the dark like an angelof mercy. Falstaff also explains how he used Bardolph's nose to identify himduring the robbery (Line 38), calling him "an everlasting bonfire-light" (Line39).

Bardolph is not amused saying he wished his face were in Falstaff's belly (Line56).

Falstaff however has the last laugh, saying "God-a-mercy! so should I be sureto be heart-burned" (Line 60).

Mistress Quickly now enters, ending this friendly jibbing (non-seriousinsulting). Falstaff immediately questions Mistress Quickly on who could have

picked his pockets, implying it was her.

Mistress Quickly, quickly (no pun intended) explains that she does not keepthieves in her house (The Boar's Head Tavern). She explains that not only didshe search the house for any thief but so too had her husband and severalservants (Lines 62-67).

Falstaff does not believe her (Line 68) and Mistress Quickly now asks Falstaff to pay his bills which include clothing, food and drink to her. She also tellsFalstaff that she suspects he invented the theft to avoid paying (Line 74).

Falstaff refuses to pay, claiming his pocket has been picked and when hementions a seal ring of his father's he has lost, (worth forty mark) MistressQuickly replies that yes, Prince Henry has mentioned it in the past (Lines 79-97).

Falstaff, hearing Prince Henry's name is angered, calling him "a Jack," and "asneak-cup;" (Line 98), adding that he would "cudgel him like a dog," if he hadthe chance (Line 100).

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Prince Henry now arrives, marching with Poins, Falstaff joining them whilst playing his truncheon like a fife.

Falstaff now tells Hal how he had his pocket picked at the Boar's Head Tavernwhich he says has turned into a "bawdy-house;" where "they pick pockets"(Line 113).

Mistress Quickly now tells Hal that Falstaff "speaks most vilely [badly] of you," (Line 122), Falstaff implying Mistress Quickly's words as those of a liar (Line 126).

Mistress Quickly is not pleased, telling Falstaff that "thy [your] knighthoodaside, thou [you] art [are] a knave [fool] to call me so" (Line 137).

This goes on for some time (Lines 137-170) until Hal explains that he wasresponsible for Falstaff's pocket being picked (Lines 171-183 and Line 190).

Falstaff graciously forgives Mistress Quickly when he really should beapologizing, telling her to leave (Line 191).

With Mistress Quickly departed, Hal explains to Falstaff that all the moneyfrom the robbery has been repaid to those they stole it from.

Falstaff does not like the idea of stealing money and then returning it, calling it"a double labour" (a double work), (Line 201).

Hal answers that as the son of his father (King Henry IV), he "may doanything" (Line 202). Hal now tells Falstaff that he has been placed in chargeand in command of "a charge of foot" (Line 208) or a group of foot soldiers.Falstaff is hardly impressed, wishing instead that he had been given charge of ahorse (Line 209)

Hal now directs orders first to Bardolph to deliver a letter to Lord John of Lancaster and another to the Lord of Westmoreland (Lines 215-218).

Next Hal orders Poins to set off on horse with him at once; they have thirtymiles to ride before "dinner-time" (Lines 219-220).

Finally Hal orders Falstaff whom he calls "Jack," to meet him tomorrow atTemple-hall at two o'clock in the afternoon where he will meet his troops andreceive money and orders to furnish (equip) them (Lines 221-224).

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Hal ends his orders by saying:

"The land is burning; Percy stands on high; / And either we or they must lower lie" (Line 225).

Act IV. Scene I. - The Rebel Camp near Shrewsbury.

Hotspur of King Henry's vast forces: "Let them come...."

At the rebel camp, the rebels learn that they will be fighting weaker thanexpected; Hotspur's father, Henry Percy, The Earl of Northhumberlandcannot join them, owing to illness. Hotspur though disheartened, quicklyregains his enthusiasm. Vernon arrives, announcing that not only do KingHenry's forces number thirty thousand, but also that Glendower's forcesare unlikely to be available either since they need another two weeks timeto be gathered. Hotspur now facing certain defeat, looks death in the eye,determined to win no matter what the odds...

Act IV opens to the scene of the rebels (Hotspur, Worcester and Douglas)discussing future plans at their rebel camp near Shrewsbury. Hotspur andDouglas are talking, Hotspur flattering Douglas and Douglas returning thefavor (Lines 1-12).

A Messenger bearing a letter now interrupts Hotspur and Douglas who learnthe letter is from Hotspur's father, Henry Percy, The Earl of Northhumberland.We quickly learn that The Earl is grievously sick (Line 16), so much so that hisown physicians fear for him (Line 24).

Hotspur now echoes the thoughts held by many in the rebellion that without theEarl their enterprise (the rebellion) is lost and without a leader (Lines 28-41).Worcester agrees, calling Hotspur's father's illness "a maim [blow] to us" (Line42).

Hotspur reconsiders his gloomy outlook, seeking to grab victory from the jawsof defeat. Hotspur now wonders aloud whether it was such a good idea to risk all their forces in a single action and decides it was not (Lines 45-51).

Besides as Hotspur says, there can be no turning back, King Henry now isalmost certainly aware of their plans (Line 40).

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Worcester now offers up the belief that the Earl's absence in their fight maycause others unaware of the Earl's sickness, to think the Earl did not approve of their revolt, arguing that "The eye of reason may pry in upon us:" (Line 72).

Hotspur has another idea. He suggests that should they fight without their fullstrength and were they to win against the King Henry's forces, such a victorywould encourage others to believe and support their revolt (Line 80-83).

Douglas supports this (Line 84) and now Sir Richard Vernon enters, with newsof the King Henry's forces. We quickly learn that the Earl of Westmoreland ismarching "hitherwards;" or towards them with a force of seven thousand menaccompanied by Prince John (Line 87).

Hotspur ever fearless, replies "No harm:" (no worry), (Line 88), learning fromVernon that King Henry himself has also set off towards them "With strong andmighty preparation" (strong and well-prepared forces), (Line 93).

Hotspur again is unaffected by this, arrogantly exclaiming "He shall bewelcome too" (Line 94).

Hotspur now asks of "The nimble-footed madcap Prince of Wales [Hal]," (Line95) learning that he too is making preparations to fight, Vernon describingHal's forces as "All furnish'd, all in arms," (all furnished, all carrying arms)(Line 97).

Vernon appears quite impressed by Hal's forces, commenting on how Hal'sforces are "Baited like eagles having lately bath'd," and how Hal's forces are"As full of spirit as the month of May," (Lines 99-100).

Vernon also remarks that he saw Hal and that he appears a changed man,resolute with purpose, "gallantly arm'd," (Line 104) and ready to fight, hisadmiration suggesting just how much Hal must have changed.

Understandably Hotspur has heard quite enough, pleading "No more, nomore:", arguing that the praise Vernon lavishes on their enemy is "worse thanthe sun in March" (Line 112).

Hotspur however quickly regains his composure, saying "Let them come;"(Line112), savoring the opportunity to fight especially with Hal. Hotspur is confidentof success, after all Glendower will be on their side (Lines 111-123).

Vernon again has news and again it is not good....

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Apparently Glendower needs more time to gather his forces; he will not beready for at least another fourteen days. Douglas is not pleased, nor isWorcester and now Hotspur makes the mistake of asking Vernon just how largethe King Henry's forces will finally be...

Vernon does not mince words, saying King Henry's forces will ultimatelynumber "thirty thousand" men (Line 129).

Hotspur again challenges defeat with blind determination, exclaiming, "Fortylet it be:" (let it be forty thousand, I don't care), (Line 130).

Hotspur is still confident that though "Doomsday is near;" (the end) without hisfather's and Glendower's forces, they will still fight, Douglas refusing to evenadmit to the very real possibility that they will now die...

Act IV. Scene II. - A public Road near Coventry.

Prince Hal on Falstaff's rag tag soldiers: "I did never see such pitiful rascals."

Falstaff ashamedly leads his ragtag troops towards Coventry, pretendingthat he is not ashamed of them. Hal meets him, laughing at Falstaff'sexpense about his troops. Falstaff, Hal and Westmoreland head off together for Shrewsbury to meet the rebels in battle...

On a public road near Coventry, we see Falstaff and Bardolph marching with

their company of soldiers towards Coventry. Falstaff orders Bardolph to refillhis supply of sack (Line 1), and instructs Peto to meet with him (Falstaff) at theend of the town (Line 10).

Falstaff explains that he is "not ashamed of my soldiers, I am a soused gurnet"(I am ashamed of my troops), (Line 12).

Nonetheless Falstaff now bitterly complains that the rag-tag company of soldiers he has received are definitely second rate to say the least, Falstaff describing them as rather lowly men, so unappealing to the eye that he says

"No eye hath [has] seen such scarecrows." Falstaff resolves not to take themthrough Coventry since there is "but a shirt and a half in all my company;" withthe rest of his men are wearing rags (Lines 12-53).

Prince Henry (Hal) and Westmoreland now meet Falstaff, Falstaff wonderingwhy Westmoreland is not already at Shrewsbury.

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