Portrait of a King or Template for Kingship?

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Portrait of a King or Template for Kingship?

In Henry V Shakespeare presents Henry V's reign in the play to the audience. One could state that Shakespeare's main purpose of the play was to demonstrate to the audience the success of Henry as an individual, through his actions and responses throughout the play. Ensuring his personal achievements are known to the audience, portraying him as a good king. Therefore assuming Shakespeare's purpose was to reveal a portrait of Henry V to the audience. On the other hand, the play could have been perceived as a 'guidebook' for kings, simply showing how to respond in certain situations. This could be shown by the decisions Henry makes in particular circumstances and conditions. Also, this thought can come to mind to the audience by how Shakespeare highlights specific qualities of leadership. These can then be referred to modern day kings. Both of these philosophies have come into consideration due to Henry's actions and the particular positions Shakespeare has put Henry in.

As soon as the play commences Shakespeare creates an immediate impression of Henry for the audience through a conversation between Canterbury and Ely. They discuss how Henry has transformed since