Henry V (play) facts for kids
Henry V is a famous play written by the well-known English writer William Shakespeare. It's known as a "history play" because it tells a story about real events from the past. The play is based on historical records, especially a book called The Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland by Raphael Holinshed.
Henry V was likely first performed on stage between 1598 and 1599. It was first printed as a book in 1600. Many years later, famous directors like Laurence Olivier and Kenneth Branaugh turned the play into exciting movies.
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About Henry V
Henry V is one of William Shakespeare's most exciting history plays. It tells the story of King Henry V of England. The play focuses on a very important time in his life. This includes his journey from a young prince to a strong leader. It also covers the famous Battle of Agincourt. This battle took place during the Hundred Years' War between England and France.
Who Was William Shakespeare?
William Shakespeare was a brilliant English playwright and poet. He lived from 1564 to 1616. Many people consider him the greatest writer in the English language. He wrote many different kinds of plays. These include comedies, tragedies, and history plays. His works are still performed and studied all over the world today.
What is the Play About?
The play Henry V follows the young King Henry V. He decides to claim the throne of France. This leads to a big war between England and France. The play shows King Henry preparing his army for battle. It also shows the challenges he faces as a leader. He has to inspire his soldiers. He also has to make tough decisions for his country.
The Battle of Agincourt
A major part of the play is the Battle of Agincourt. This battle happened in 1415. The English army was much smaller than the French army. Many people thought the English would lose. However, King Henry V gives a famous speech. He encourages his soldiers to fight bravely. This speech is one of the most well-known parts of the play. Despite being outnumbered, the English army wins a great victory. This battle is a key moment in English history.
When Was the Play Written?
Shakespeare likely wrote Henry V around 1599. This was a busy time for him. He was writing many of his famous plays. The play was first printed in 1600. This early printed version is called a quarto. It helped people read the play even if they couldn't see it performed.
Henry V on Screen
Henry V has been made into movies several times. Two of the most famous versions were directed by actors. Laurence Olivier directed and starred in a movie version in 1944. This film was made during World War II. It was meant to inspire people in England. Later, Kenneth Branaugh directed and starred in his own version in 1989. Both movies helped bring Shakespeare's play to new audiences.
Images for kids
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Title page of the first quarto (1600)
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King Henry V
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A print of Act III, Scene i: "Once more unto the breach, dear friends!"
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Catharine learns English from her gentlewoman Alice in an 1888 lithograph by Laura Alma-Tadema. Act III, Scene iv.
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The 1587 edition of Holinshed's Chronicles
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The first page of The Life of King Henry the Fifth, printed in the Second Folio edition of 1632
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A photograph of Lewis Waller as Henry V, from a 1900 performance of the play
See also
In Spanish: Enrique V (teatro) para niños
