# Scene II explained — Henry V

> Chapter companion for Henry V by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

King Henry V consults with the Archbishop of Canterbury and his nobles about his claim to the French throne. Canterbury argues that the Salique law does not bar Henry's claim through the female line, citing historical precedents. The nobles urge Henry to assert his right and invade France. Henry then receives the French ambassador, who delivers the Dauphin's insulting gift of tennis balls. Henry responds with a fierce rebuke, vowing to turn the mockery into a devastating war, and resolves to prepare for the invasion of France.

## Themes in this chapter

### Kingship and Leadership

Henry carefully seeks legal and moral justification for war, demonstrating the weight of kingly responsibility.

### War and Its Costs

Henry warns of the bloodshed that will result from the conflict, and the Dauphin's mockery is predicted to cause widespread suffering.

### National Identity and Patriotism

The nobles invoke England's glorious past and the need to defend national honor against French insult.

### Legitimacy of Power

Canterbury's lengthy argument seeks to establish the legal and historical legitimacy of Henry's claim to the French throne.

## Character check-ins

### King Henry V

Seeks legal and moral justification for his claim to France, then responds defiantly to the Dauphin's insult.

### Archbishop of Canterbury

Provides a detailed historical argument supporting Henry's claim to France and offers financial support from the clergy.

### Bishop of Ely

Supports Canterbury's argument and encourages Henry to emulate his ancestors.

### Duke of Exeter

Urges Henry to assert his claim and later comments on the Dauphin's message.

### Earl of Westmoreland

Advises Henry on the strategic need to secure Scotland before invading France.

### The Dauphin

Sends tennis balls as a mocking gift, provoking Henry's wrath.

### Duke of Gloucester

Present in the scene as part of Henry's court.

### Duke of Bedford

Present in the scene as part of Henry's court.

## Key lines

> No woman shall succeed in Salique land

Women are not allowed to inherit land under Salique law.

_Canterbury explains the French interpretation of the Salique law that bars female inheritance._

> May I with right and conscience make this claim?

Can I legally and morally assert my right to the French throne?

_Henry seeks assurance from Canterbury that his claim is just._

> When thousands weep more than did laugh at it.

Many more people will cry over this joke than laughed at it.

_Henry warns the Dauphin that his mockery will lead to widespread suffering._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/henry_v_se/chapters/act-i-scene-ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/henry_v_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/henry_v_se/chapters