Character Analysis: Falstaff

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Shakespeare presents a collection of conventional heroes in Henry IV Part 1. Hal’s transformation, Hotspur’s bravery, and King Henry’s aggressive reign echo the societal values of the traditional Elizabethan male. These characters are all examples of society’s standards. Sir John Falstaff’s round, animated personality contrasts these flat characters in the play. By creating a man who flagrantly disregards societal norms through unconventional behavior, Shakespeare supports personal value over societal values. In Part 1 of Henry IV, Falstaff is the only character who truly develops. Hal, though apparently transformed from rebellious to courageous, recognizes that he is blanketed by “foul and ugly mists of vapor that seem to strangle him” (1.3). King Henry, also, remains riddled with guilt. Only Falstaff contrasts his static compatriots. This flagrant disregard for societal expectations allows Falstaff flexibility that is often unheard of in Elizabethan times. Always transforming, Falstaff is in direct contrast with Hal and his fixed, unwavering station. Falstaff’s erratic personality is exemplified numerous times throughout the play; for example he changes his story about the events that occurred on Gadshill. Falstaff, at first, seems to be irresponsible. Even Hal points out Falstaff’s flaws: “thou art so fat witted…thou has forgotten to demand that truly which thou wouldst truly know” (1.1) when Falstaff inquires as to the time. His apparent idleness, however, does not necessarily suggest irresponsibility. Rather, it symbolizes his indifference to structure and balance. Falstaff rejects the mundane, and therefore is unbothered by the concept of time and its obligations. He achieves a sense of freedom from the duties and opi... ... middle of paper ... ...to be taken seriously allows him to cunningly veil his malignant comments with humor thus enabling him to voice his opinions safely. By combining Falstaff’s individuality, personal values, and audience appeal, the character of Falstaff conveys an important theme: the significance of the individual. Though societal values and the individuals within those societies depend on one another, Falstaff confirms the urgent need for one to stay true to who they are, no matter what societal norms decree. Falstaff survives by adhering to his own beliefs, and by doing so remains immortal within the realm of literature. Works Cited "Essay, the Dramatic Character of Sir John Falstaff E-book by Maurice Morgann." OpenDB.Network :: Web Is Not Read Only - Home. Web. 01 Mar. 2011. .

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