Analysis Of Two Sided Rebellion In Henry IV Part 1

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Two-Sided Rebellion Although the stage of Henry IV, Part 1 hosts preparations for a rebellion-ending war, William Shakespeare plots a far different story of family and responsibility. The universal themes created throughout the play suggest pertinent questions about the individual, as well as general, paths we take in life. The stage becomes a dinner table, where educative topics, such as freedom versus conformity, are discussed. Shakespeare’s clever use of parallel events connects the highest and lowest classes of society, allowing the reader to visualize different points of views. King Henry IV, and Hotspur are both from England’s highest social level. They are both shown to believe that war will help their nation thrive. Hotspur introduces the idea that fighting in a battle is a “such a courtesy” (Act 5, Scene 2), meanwhile King Henry IV pleads for more wars to increase his people’s patriotism. King Henry IV trusts …show more content…

When war approaches, he decides to fight, and thus proves his nobility, and coming of age. The play argues that it is responsibility which takes us out of our young hotspur nature. Prince Hal comes to call Falstaff “the strangest man” (Act 5, Scene 4), after the war ends. Prince Hal changes, and decides to follow his father. Shakespeare adheres to the theory that no matter how much we protest, we will all become our parents one day. Shakespeare describes relevant lessons throughout the play. The entertainment provided by the battle between the king and the rebels, combined with the comic relief of Falstaff, and the coming of age story of Prince Hal, create a highly enjoyable play. Honesty sticks to the images and messages provided by the characters. I would absolutely recommend this story, for it is not only provocative, but also fun to read. Shakespeare’s complex plot, and simple lessons, makes Henry IV, Part 1 an engaging masterpiece. Go

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