# Scene VI explained — Henry V

> Chapter companion for Henry V by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

King Henry and his forces receive news of the deaths of the Duke of York and the Earl of Suffolk, who died in a noble embrace. Exeter recounts their heroic end, moving Henry to tears. As the French rally, Henry orders the killing of prisoners.

## Themes in this chapter

### Honor and Glory

York and Suffolk's deaths are portrayed as a testament to noble-ending love and chivalric honor.

### War and Its Costs

The emotional toll of war is highlighted through Henry's tears and the graphic description of the nobles' deaths.

## Character check-ins

### King Henry V

Hears Exeter's account of York and Suffolk's deaths, is moved to tears, and orders the killing of prisoners.

### Duke of Exeter

Reports the deaths of York and Suffolk to King Henry, describing their noble end.

### Duke of York

Died after fighting valiantly; embraced Suffolk in his final moments.

### Earl of Suffolk

Died first, with York kissing his wounds and vowing to accompany him to heaven.

## Key lines

> The Duke of York commends him to your majesty.

The Duke of York sends his respects to you, your majesty.

_Exeter delivers York's final message to King Henry._

> Then every soldier kill his prisoners; Give the word through.

Let every soldier kill his prisoners; spread the order.

_Henry commands the execution of French prisoners as the enemy regroups._

## Links

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