Paper Summary:

This paper examines the perspective of the common man in William Shakespeare's "Henry V" through the character of Pistol. The paper compares the character of Henry - a shining example of the courageous, just, wise, Christian king - with Pistol, a common soldier. The paper maintains the King's virtues are highlighted when set beside the lowly attributes of Pistol. Also highlighted, however, is the separate war experienced by the King versus the common soldier. The paper asserts that Pistol also serves to undermine the ideal of war as King Henry presents it. The paper concludes that Pistol's function is to portray the common man's perspective and plight in the war, in contrast with the aloof and noble perspective of Henry V.

From the Paper:

"Henry's cloaked journey through his ranks seems to be an act of inspiration and leadership. He attempts to comfort men and to get to know them as 'just another soldier' on the eve of battle. The result, however, is quite different. His encounter with Pistol is humorous, but again forces the viewer to appreciate the gap between nobility and Pistol's class. Henry styles himself as "Harry le roi" (4.1.ll.50) knowing that Pistol would be unable to translate the latter two thirds. He is having fun at Pistol's expense; it is terribly unlikely anyone beneath nobility in England would have learned French. Henry's following argument with Williams is lame as well, for he refuses responsibility a king has for the men he commits to battle."

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