Henry V · Chapter
Scene II explained
At the siege of Harfleur, Nym, Bardolph, Pistol, and the Boy are reluctant to join the assault.
What happens
At the siege of Harfleur, Nym, Bardolph, Pistol, and the Boy are reluctant to join the assault. Fluellen drives them forward. The Boy reflects on the cowardice and thievery of his companions. Fluellen and Gower discuss the mines, and Fluellen criticizes the siege tactics. Macmorris and Jamy arrive, and a heated argument about military discipline and national identity erupts between Fluellen and Macmorris, interrupted by a parley from the town.
Themes in this chapter
War and Its Costs
The soldiers' reluctance and the Boy's critique highlight the grim realities and moral compromises of war.
The Common Soldier and Class
The Boy's monologue exposes the cowardice and petty thievery of common soldiers, contrasting with ideals of honor.
National Identity and Patriotism
The heated exchange between Fluellen (Welsh) and Macmorris (Irish) over 'my nation' underscores tensions within the English army.
Characters to notice
- Corporal Nym
Reluctant to fight, complains the knocks are too hot.
- Bardolph
Urges others to the breach but is described by the Boy as white-livered and red-faced.
- Pistol
Speaks in bombastic verse, begs Fluellen for mercy, and is noted for having a killing tongue but a quiet sword.
- The Boy
Provides a critical monologue on the cowardice and thievery of Nym, Bardolph, and Pistol; decides to leave them for better service.
- Captain Fluellen
Drives the soldiers to the breach, argues about military discipline, and clashes with Macmorris over national pride.
- Captain Gower
Informs Fluellen that the Duke of Gloucester is directing the siege with an Irishman's advice.
- Captain Macmorris
Angry that the mines have been abandoned, insists on action, and takes offense at Fluellen's comments about his nation.
- Captain Jamy
A Scottish captain who observes the argument and expresses a desire to hear the debate.
Key passages
“Would I were in an alehouse in London! I would give all my fame for a pot of ale and safety.”
The Boy wishes he were safe in a London tavern, valuing comfort over glory.
Expresses the common soldier's desire for safety over heroic fame.
“For Pistol, he hath a killing tongue and a quiet sword; by the means whereof a’ breaks words, and keeps whole weapons.”
Pistol talks fiercely but never fights, so his sword remains unused.
The Boy's critique of Pistol's cowardice and bluster.
“What ish my nation? Ish a villain, and a bastard, and a knave, and a rascal—What ish my nation? Who talks of my nation?”
Macmorris angrily questions the relevance of national identity, implying it is used as an insult.
Highlights the theme of national identity and the tensions it creates.