Explore the ways in which Shakespeare presents Henry as both a private man and a public figure in the course of the play.

... Explore the ways in which Shakespeare presents Henry as both a private man and a public figure in the course of the play. The historical drama has long been used to portray English Kings and Queens as noble and heroic figures. Shakespeare is noted for writing the first true dramatic presentations of history's rulers in his plays, particularly the works Julius Caesar, Henry IV Parts I and II, and Henry V. In King Henry VI Parts I and II Shakespeare had already presented his audience with a younger Henry, Prince Hal, who preferred the company of Falstaff, Nym and Bardolph to the royal court of his father. In Henry V, King Henry is portrayed very much as a man changed by duty and age. Shakespeare represents the king's qualities very effectively, notably his leadership, patriotic courage and commitment to God. As early as the fifth line of the rousing opening chorus,

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