Henry V is a history play by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written in approximately 1599. It tells the story of King Henry V of England, focusing on events immediately before and after the Battle of Agincourt (1415) during the Hundred Years' War. The play opens with the English court debating the claim of Henry, the young Duke of Lancaster, to the French throne. Henry's claim is based on his great-grandfather's right to the throne, which was denied by the French. The English court is divided on the issue, with some supporting Henry's claim and others opposing it. The French, meanwhile, are preparing for war. The Dauphin, the French prince, sends a gift of tennis balls to Henry, mocking him as a mere boy. Henry responds by gathering an army and sailing to France. Once in France, Henry's forces are outnumbered and outmatched by the French. Despite this, Henry rallies his troops and leads them to victory at the Battle of Agincourt. After the battle, Henry and the French King Charles VI sign a peace treaty, ending the Hundred Years' War. The play ends with Henry returning to England, where he is celebrated as a hero.
By William Shakespeare · First published 1599 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Drama, Romance · 24 chapters