Henry IV, Part II · Chapter
Scene II explained
In the palace at Westminster, Warwick and the Lord Chief Justice discuss the death of King Henry IV and the uncertain future under the new King Henry V.
What happens
In the palace at Westminster, Warwick and the Lord Chief Justice discuss the death of King Henry IV and the uncertain future under the new King Henry V. The Chief Justice fears retribution for his past actions against Prince Hal. The new king enters and, after a tense exchange, affirms the Chief Justice's authority, appointing him as a fatherly advisor and signaling a transformation from his wild youth to a responsible monarch.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Legitimacy
The new king asserts his authority by confirming the Chief Justice's role, demonstrating legitimate rule through justice rather than revenge.
Transformation and Redemption
Prince Hal's speech marks his definitive shift from a wild youth to a responsible monarch, redeeming his past reputation.
Justice and Law
The Chief Justice defends his past actions as upholding the law, and the king endorses the impartial administration of justice.
Characters to notice
- Earl of Warwick
Warwick greets the Chief Justice and reports the king's death, expressing concern about the new king's disposition.
- Lord Chief Justice
The Chief Justice fears the new king's disfavor due to his past imprisonment of Prince Hal, but ultimately receives the king's trust and appointment as advisor.
- Prince John of Lancaster
Prince John enters with other nobles, expressing sorrow and caution about the new reign.
- Thomas of Clarence
Clarence enters with the other princes and remarks that the Chief Justice must now speak fair to Falstaff.
- Duke of Gloucester
Gloucester enters with the group and acknowledges the Chief Justice's genuine sorrow.
- Earl of Westmoreland
Westmoreland is present among the nobles attending the new king.
- King Henry IV
The late king is discussed as having died, with his death prompting the transition of power.
- Prince Harry
Now King Henry V, he enters and reconciles with the Chief Justice, declaring his transformation and commitment to justice.
Key passages
“This new and gorgeous garment, majesty, Sits not so easy on me as you think.”
This royal authority feels unfamiliar and burdensome to me.
King Henry V admits the weight of his new role.
“You are right, justice, and you weigh this well; Therefore still bear the balance and the sword.”
You are correct, Lord Chief Justice, and you have judged wisely; continue to uphold justice and authority.
The king affirms the Chief Justice's position and the rule of law.
“My father is gone wild into his grave, For in his tomb lie my affections; And with his spirit sadly I survive, To mock the expectation of the world.”
My wild youth is buried with my father; I now live to defy everyone's low expectations of me.
Prince Hal declares his transformation and intention to surprise those who doubted him.