In the historical play Henry V, by William Shakespeare, we are introduced to the story of a young and mysterious King Henry V of England, and his quest to conquer France under the reign of Charles VI of France. According to the History article (“Battle of Agincourt”), it details Henry’s life leading up to and following the Battle of Agincourt in the year 1415. From the very beginning, the Chorus portrays Henry as a glorious King who is about to engage in an epic and glorifying battle with the French. However, the Chorus then reveals that the play will not be as heroic and godly as initially envisioned. This is because there is a shortage in the resources necessary to depict this great spectacle, and it is instead the audience’s responsibility …show more content…
One of the most prevalent literary elements is his use of hyperbole to symbolize the anger and vengeance he wishes to impose on the Dauphin when he threatens, “And tell the pleasant prince this mock of his Hath turned his balls to gun stones,” (293-294). This line exemplifies not only King Henry’s ruthless behavior, but also his no-nonsense approach to war in comparison to the Dauphin. Therefore, his threat to return the Dauphin’s measly tennis balls with the launching of cannonballs upon France indicates his preparedness in defending himself and his country’s honor. It also suggests the maturity Henry possesses in dealing with the subject of war, as the Dauphin’s threat actually backfires upon him when Henry responds in such an aggressive tone. Another instance of hyperbole here is when he later bellows, “His soul Shall stand sore charged for the wasteful vengeance That shall fly with them; for many a thousand widows.” (294-297). In this passage, Henry releases his fury upon the Dauphin, and his use of hyperbole in both passages serves to provide stunning imagery of the destruction and death that will hit the country of France in retaliation for being mocked. This passage portrays Henry’s merciless behavior, and it foretells how Henry will later address high-pressure situations during the war when his savage and wrathful side overtakes his …show more content…
When considering the importance of Henry’s use of the dash, you must recall how blatantly Henry has been expressing his desire to inflict vengeance upon the French. This also indicates how intensely Henry has been provoked by the Dauphin to the point where he has commanded to invade and unleash destruction on France during this tennis match of a war. Immediately after, however, Henry switches from a wrathful to reverent tone when addressing the Ambassadors by saluting, “When thousands weep more than did laugh at it. —Convey them with safe conduct. —Fare you well.” (309-310). From this passage, we are given insight into Henry’s decisiveness as the dashes are included to indicate this dramatic shift/pause that occurs when he wishes peace for the Ambassadors as they depart back to France. This serves well for Henry as even though he may sound very boastful and irate, he still understands how to remain courteous both as a leader and