King Henry II Symbolism Essay

During the course of his plays, Shakespeare uses symbolism to portray his life, time period and messages he wants to get across to the audience. For example, many individuals in his time were not fond of his work and his response is used in his plays in the form of symbolism. Furthermore, symbolism is used to enhance the meaning of what is essentially being described. Moreover, Shakespeare utilizes symbolism in Henry IV, Part 1 to foreshadow the play and to guarantee that the Prince of Wales will shine like the sun and start a new era and become the new king like he was destined to be. However, Henry IV considers Hal not fit for court and Hal needs to change his mind by battling with his father in the Battle of Shrewsbury. Symbolism is constantly

This is because the sun is argued to represent the king and his reign. King Henry is very much connected with the symbol of the sun with respect to his ability and inability as King. First, the clouds that blur King Henry’s light come from his own doubts about the legitimacy of his reign. King Henry gathered the court to discuss the battle while Worcester interrupted him and reminded him that “our own hands” (1.3.12) helped the king to become what he is now, but the king responded quickly and said, “O sir, your presence is too bold and peremptory, /And majesty might never yet endure / The moody frontier of a servant brow. / You have good leave to leave us” (1.3.16-19). In this respect, the clouds replace the sun which is equivalent to King Henry’s uncertainty about his position as King. Worcester and Northumberland believe that the king should not be where he is now without their assistance but, the king on the other hand knows that Worcester was precise but he does not want to be reminded of it with so much supremacy already in his control. Secondly, the bleak shadow can quickly be replaced by the shining sun as the sun symbolizes power, authority and success as a leader. The king addresses Hal and states, “By being seldom seen, I could not stir / But like a comet I was wondered at; / That men would tell their children ‘This is he.’” (3.2.46-48). His inability is represented by having a dark shadow in

First, Hal distinguishes his plan in the beginning and tries to convey everyone that he is a corrupt person that does not deserve to become prince. After that he will rise like the sun and be a better prince that can be trusted. Hal asks the king’s permission to for a second chance: “ Your Majesty’s good thoughts away from me. / I will redeem all this on Percy’s head, / And, in the closing of some glorious day, / Be bold to tell you that I am your son” (3.2.136-139). Indeed, the king is slightly unsure of his decision since Hal is not the best example of an honourable prince. However, Hal knows if he is given a second chance he will be able to rise from the darkness and corruption of the tavern while pleasing his father. Of course, he will also be given the high reputation of being the prince. Next, Hal decides to ignore Falstaff after killing Hotspur which seems cruel but was needed to be done if Hal is fit to be in court. If Falstaff were to stay with Hal in court, he would continuously be reminded of the misery he had to go through before becoming the prince. Hal made his decision to ignore Falstaff by saying, “This is the strangest fellow, brother John.— / Come, bring your luggage nobly on your back. / For my part, if a lie may do thee grace, / I’ll gild it with the happiest terms I have” (5.4.159-162). To illustrate, Prince Hal is tired of being