Choices: Moral vs Immoral - in Shakespeare's "Henry V"

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CHOICES: Moral vs Immoral

John Murphy

1015 Words


        The purpose of this essay is to analyze the Shakespearean play, “Henry V.”  This historical play provides the reader with the background on the causes and effects of the actions of a king attempting to hold on to his throne.  Throughout this play, King Henry V is forced to make many choices, which affect his public view as a leader.  His actions are not always honorable.  Henry must act immorally and unforgivably, in order to maintain the stability of his reign.  This is demonstrated in a few ways.  He must choose the path of least resistance in order to maintain a domineering public perception.  He must make a difficult choice in the execution of one of a close personal friend.  He must choose his “battle tone” after his army lands at the gates of the town of Harfleur.  

        One of his first moral choices came at the beginning of the play.  The English Church, at the time, was a very powerful and rich institution, second only to the throne.  Henry is approached by the Archbishops of Canterbury and Ely, and convinced into attacking France, using his right to the French throne as an excuse for the invasion.  Even though Henry chose to follow the advice of these men, he places any blame for its failure on their heads.  He cites the possibility of a Scottish uprising against England after his troops depart for France, and the lack of proper homeland defense that would occur should his army assume this task.  Another instance in which Henry’s morals are challenged is during his audience with the Dauphin.  Henry has already decided to invade France, yet after he is publicly humiliated by the tennis ball gift form the Dauphin, he proceeds to explain that because of the Dauphin’s ignorance, the blood of the French people will not be on his hands.  His failure to take responsibility for the impending battles, and placing the blame, not once but twice on others, clearly displays his low morals.

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        One of the most difficult choices a person can make is that of the greater good. King Henry is challenged by this situation early in the play.  He has already chosen to invade France and documentation was presented to him about the thievery and traitorous actions of three of his countrymen. These men include Cambridge, Scrope, and Grey.  Scrope was a personal friend of Henry’s and it disturbed him greatly to learn of his treasonous acts.  The process by which Henry came to his decision about the traitors’ fate was a very unique one.  While Henry already had knowledge of ...

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