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There are also more detailed studies around; check your local library.The basic historical outline shows that Henry IV overthrew Richard II, who was considered a tyrant for a variety of deeds, the most salient of which was that the seized Henry's inheritance without reason. Henry raised and army and declared himself king after which Richard obligingly starved himself to death (if you believe Henry, which no one does).
However, there were questions about Henry's right to the throne; he was not the rightful heir (by current standards; back then, no one was really sure) and there were several attempts to overthrow him. Henry prevailed in battle and remained king, though near the end of his life, he developed a dibilitating disease that he thought of as divine retribution for his usurpation. Prince Hal ran the government as his father became sicker and sicker, and officiall became king on Henry IV's death. Hal was Henry's oldest son.
Henry V spent much of his time conquering France, winning the victory Agincourt and marrying Catherine (though it's doubful he wooed her as WS shows; it was strictly an arranged political marriage). He died of dysentery while campagning in France, leaving his infant son, Henry VI as king.
Henry V is generally considered one of England's greatest kings (mostly on the strength of Agincourt, though he did rule quite justly). Modern historians question the wisdom of trying to conquer France, however. Certainly the continuation of that policy under Henry VI was a disaster.
Finally, the parts about Price Hal and Falstaff have no basis in fact.
Posted by Reality Chuck on April 18, 1997 at 11:56:18
In Reply to "Understanding Henry V" posted by Ben on April 18, 1997 at 10:20:04
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