King Henry's Use Of Literary Devices In Act 1 Scene 2

For my close-reading essay assignment, I have chosen lines 290-310 from Act 1, Scene 2 of Henry V as my passage for explication. This particular text was selected because of the many literary elements that I was able to unveil while analyzing it earlier. For example, the fact that there are several hyperboles, strong diction and tone, and an anaphora all within this passage signify how symbolic it is. Through King Henry’s usage of different forms of literary elements in his monologue, it sets the base for a more profound and thought-provoking dialogue about the significance of his tirade, and why he chose to include such barbaric language when addressing the Dauphin’s messenger. Additionally, this scene epitomizes King Henry’s violent and hot-headed

nature. This passage may also serve to portray the attitude and composure of monarchs during the Renaissance era, as it will be intriguing to read more about how Henry V transforms as the war progresses. Even more, King Henry’s immaturity is also a certain characteristic to take note of, which was made evident when he decided to viciously threaten the innocent Ambassador and destroy France into ruins over receiving a chest of tennis balls. Another interesting component to analyze is King Henry’s malicious and disdainful tone. Before drafting my essay, I plan to analyze the text word-by-word, so that I can focus attentively on the diction incorporated within the text, and how it shapes the overall theme of the play. Through the data and connections I make, I will then be able to infer as to why Shakespeare chose to portray King Henry in this manner. In the end, I will have written an explication piece that discusses the purpose and significance of the different literary elements included within King Henry’s speech, and how they portray King Henry as a barbaric and impulsive ruler, who is unaware of the dangerous situation he is getting himself into by declaring war against the Dauphin and France.