Henry IV, part 1
The long form of the original title, from the old English theatre records? Just “The History of King Henry IV,” or something like that. The “part i” addition? Probably a publisher’s edition, and the second part? Probably sequel to cash in on the success of the first.
Looking at you, Hollywood.
While not original with Shakespeare, his era, peers, and contemporaries certainly developed the sequel as a valid, commercial art form.
Then, too, young Prince Hal as a profligate wastrel, the biblical updated version of the prodigal son?
“The play tells the story of the gradual reconciliation of father and son, culminating at the Battle of Shrewsbury, where Hal protects his father from attack and kills Hotspur in single combat.” Page 114.1
As outlined in the original play’s preface.
Henry IV, part 1
There’s a secret, and in part, I really do enjoy some of the background material. Some days it helps. With this play, just looking, and listening, I tend to page through some older Shakespeare podcasts, but this production really benefited from just glancing backwards at the scholarship. Not really scholarship, but more like fan notes about various productions.
First quarter moon, low in the eastern sky, Venus not really visible until the intermission, but shining brightly, and a young kid with no padding playing Jack Falstaff.
The twin stars were the kids playing Prince Hal, and Hotspur. and, of course, Falstaff. A little jig for an introduction, and on to Eastcheap, shenanigans, and the play rocked right along.
Outstanding show. Brought a little more alive by a spirited cast.
Near the final scene, the king hugs his son, and the audience let out a collective, “Ahhhhh.”
Henry IV, part 1
#Shakespeare
- This is Shakespeare by Emma Smith. Highly recommended as a guide. ↩
