53 pages • 1 hour read •
Henry V
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
294
Play • Fiction
England And France • Medieval
1599
Washington Square Press
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
Henry V by William Shakespeare follows King Henry V of England as he leads his troops against France, culminating in the Battle of Agincourt. The play illustrates Henry's growth from a reckless youth to a determined leader, exploring themes of warfare, kingship, and moral compromise. Henry's victory at Agincourt solidifies his claim, leading to a peace treaty and his marriage to the French Princess Katherine. This book contains references to medieval warfare, including death and injury, and violent threat.
Inspirational
Suspenseful
Emotional
Contemplative
Adventurous
Reviews & Readership
50,932 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Critics praise Henry V for its dynamic portrayal of leadership and the complexities of warfare. Shakespeare's nuanced characters and stirring speeches are highlights, though some find the nationalistic fervor overly idealized. While the play's historical accuracy is debatable, its emotional and rhetorical power remains widely appreciated.
Who Should Read Henry V?
Readers who enjoy Henry V by William Shakespeare are often drawn to historical drama and sophisticated language. They typically appreciate complex characters and themes of leadership and honor. Fans of Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin and War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy may find joy in this classic Shakespearean work.
50,932 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Dauphin
The Dauphin
Heir apparent to the King of France, depicted as arrogant and dismissive of Henry's capabilities. His actions heighten the conflict between England and France.
Captain Fluellen
Captain Fluellen
A Welsh Captain in the English army, characterized by his strong national identity and loyalty. He provides comic relief while highlighting themes of unity.
Katherine
Katherine
The daughter of the King of France and a distant cousin to Henry, her role involves diplomatic marriage. She symbolizes peace and diplomacy following the war.
Henry V features one of Shakespeare's most famous speeches, the "St. Crispin's Day" speech, which has inspired numerous political and military leaders throughout history with its themes of camaraderie and bravery.
The play is part of a tetralogy, known as the Henriad, which also includes Richard II, Henry IV, Part 1, and Henry IV, Part 2; these plays collectively explore the history of the English monarchy.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
There was a real-life Henry V who became king of England in 1413 and was renowned for his military successes during the Hundred Years' War, notably the Battle of Agincourt, which is depicted in Shakespeare's play.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
294
Play • Fiction
England And France • Medieval
1599
Washington Square Press
Adult
16+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.