The unnervingly relevant story of Henry V is heading to Worthing Theatres and Museum this spring with a new and unique perspective on England’s fifteenth-century hero.
What happens?
Set in England in the early fifteenth century, this play follows the dramatic rise to power of Henry V. The political situation in England is dire; King Henry IV has died, and his young son Henry V has assumed the throne.
Tensions rise higher as Henry must live down his wild adolescence spent with thieves and drunks in the seedy side of London in order to gain the respect and trust of the English people.
On a very technical interpretation of land laws, Henry lays claim to French land. The French Dauphin sends Henry an insulting gift as a result, and Henry retaliates by invading France with the support of his noblemen.
The decision to invade France trickles down to affect the common people Henry rules over, including his old acquaintances Bardolph, Nim, and Pistol, whom he rejected upon his rise to power. They are part-time criminals, and the opposite end of the social spectrum from Henry. As they prepare for war, they reflect on the death of Henry’s close friend Falstaff.
After Henry learns of a conspiracy against his life, he orders the trio of traitors to be executed, one of whom was a former friend of his. Against the odds, the English successfully battle their way across the country. After conquering the town of Harfleur, Henry gives a motivating speech which leads his soldiers to victory. During the English’s advance, Bardolph and Nim are caught looting, and subsequently hanged.
The pinnacle of the war happens at the infamous Battle of Agincourt, where the English were outnumbered five to one. On the eve of the battle, Henry disguises himself as a commoner and speaks earnestly with many of the soldiers in his camp, learning all about them and what they think of the battle they’re involved in. Later on, he processes his responsibilities as a king.
In the morning, Henry gives an inspiring speech to his soldiers, who ultimately win the battle, leading to the French surrendering. Henry marries Catherine, the daughter of the French king, and his son will be the King of France, uniting France and England.
What’s the significance?
The story of Henry V’s reign is a significant one, and highlights his determination to gain a successful foreign policy. His war in France is notorious, coming just two years after his coronation. After years of military campaigns and treaty negotiations, Henry V was recognised as regent and heir apparent to the French throne, though he died just two years later.
Modern analyses of Henry’s reign vary from praise on his bravery and military genius to criticism of his cruel temperament and lack of focus on domestic affairs. Despite this, his military pursuits during the Hundred Years’ War created a strong sense of English nationalism and set the stage for Britain’s rise to global dominance.
Headlong’s production of Henry V highlights the civil unrest and trouble with Europe during this time, exploring Henry’s bombastic pursuit of power and questioning what it really means to be English.
The parallels between society now and five hundred years ago are prominent, and the execution of this play brings into question the ethics and morals of everything from love to war. To experience a slice of history and literature in this way is a privilege; you may find your ways of thinking totally changed by the time you exit the theatre.