Henry V Religion

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Henry V Examines how historical fiction in drama and film comments upon and reflects their own contexts, offering enduring insights into society. Historical fiction in drama and film explores the enduring principles of realpolitik, revealing the complexities of leadership and the value of religion that provide insight into Elizabethan and Napoleonic societies. The perpetual play Henry V by William Shakespeare depicts the harsh materialities of leadership and how personal sacrifice is crucial. It cultivates the religious beliefs of the time while also paralleling Elizabethan society, based on the sacrifices Queen Elizabeth made during her reign. Correspondingly, Peter Weir’s film “Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World” corroborates …show more content…

Shakespeare delineates this concept through Henry. Henry’s execution of Bardolph for looting a church exemplifies the personal sacrifices that are imperative to a leader. Henry demonstrates a commitment to justice when he faces the difficult decision to execute his old friend. This portrayal illuminates the pragmatic choices inherent in monarchical rule. Henry's decision is depicted as a necessary measure. Allowing Bardolph to evade consequences could sow discontent among those who adhere to the law. By depicting Henry's adherence to justice, as reflected in the line "We would have all such offenders cut off," Shakespeare demonstrates the moral dilemmas faced by leaders. Furthermore, Shakespeare uses Bardolph's execution to emphasise the pragmatic nature of leadership. Henry's decision is portrayed not as a callous act but as a calculated response to prevent further disorder and uphold the rule of law. By showing Henry grappling with the decision and its potential consequences, Shakespeare invites the audience to reflect on the complexities of leadership. His portrayal parallels the sacrifices Queen Elizabeth I made, such as remaining unmarried to avoid political …show more content…

In "Henry V," Shakespeare employs soliloquy to reveal Henry's internal conflicts and deep religious beliefs.The soliloquy reveals Henry’s vulnerability and humility to the audience, portraying him as a leader who recognizes his limitations and seeks divine assistance. This humanises Henry, making him more relatable and emphasising the heavy burden of leadership.The technique allows the audience to discover Henry V inner thinking, and let them see how he truly believes in religious beliefs in his most stressed states. Before the Battle of Agincourt, Henry prays for divine support, O God of battles! steel my soldiers' hearts. This prayer highlights his deep reliance on divine intervention, reflecting the era's belief in the divine right of kings and the intertwining of leadership with faith.By seeking divine support, Henry acknowledges his human limitations and the need for external aid to achieve his objectives. This is a pragmatic acknowledgment of the realities of leadership. In stark contrast, Peter Weir's "Master and Commander" presents a secular approach to leadership, influenced by the Enlightenment age, where thinkers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Kant promoted ideas of individualism, rationality, and scepticism towards religious institutions. This philosophical

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