Henry IV, Part II · Chapter
Scene III explained
In Gloucestershire, Falstaff and his companions enjoy a merry evening with Justice Shallow and Justice Silence.
What happens
In Gloucestershire, Falstaff and his companions enjoy a merry evening with Justice Shallow and Justice Silence. The revelry is interrupted by Pistol, who arrives from court with news that King Henry IV has died and Prince Hal is now King Henry V. Falstaff, overjoyed, immediately plans to ride to London, believing he will be favored by the new king and that his enemies, like the Lord Chief Justice, will suffer.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Rumor
Pistol brings news from court, and Falstaff eagerly believes it will lead to his own advancement, though the truth of the new king's intentions is yet unknown.
Friendship and Betrayal
Falstaff celebrates his supposed favor with the new king, while anticipating the downfall of the Lord Chief Justice, highlighting the shifting loyalties of the court.
Characters to notice
- Sir John Falstaff
Revels with Shallow and Silence, then receives news of the king's death and exults in his anticipated rise to power.
- Justice Shallow
Hosts Falstaff and his company in his orchard, drinking and making merry.
- Justice Silence
Sings and drinks heartily, showing a surprisingly merry side.
- Davy
Serves the company and expresses a wish to see London.
- Bardolph
Drinks with the company and rejoices at the news of the king's death.
- Ancient Pistol
Arrives from court with the news of King Henry IV's death and Prince Hal's accession.
Key passages
“What, is the old king dead?”
Falstaff asks if King Henry IV has died.
Falstaff's immediate question upon hearing Pistol's news.
“I know the young king is sick for me.”
Falstaff believes the new king, Prince Hal, eagerly desires his company.
Falstaff's deluded confidence in his influence over the new monarch.
“Blessed are they that have been my friends; and woe to my lord chief-justice!”
Falstaff declares that his friends will be blessed and his enemies, especially the Lord Chief Justice, will suffer.
Falstaff anticipates rewarding his allies and punishing his foes under the new reign.