Henry V

The Chorus describes the magnificent English fleet setting sail for France. Henry has made his landing at Harfleur, a city on the north coast. He and his army have laid siege to the city in a terrifying display of power. King Charles, shocked by the power of Henry’s army, has offered a compromise. He will give Henry a series of “petty” dukedoms (i.e., large but unprofitable territories) in France, but he will keep the crown. He also offers his daughter Katherine (also spelled Catherine) as Henry’s bride. Henry dismisses the offer. He continues to lay siege to Harfleur. The Chorus tells the audience that the action will now move to the battle at Harfleur and urges them to imagine the scene of war: “be kind // eke out our performance with your mind” (3.Prolouge.34-35).

The scene consists of a rousing speech by King Henry, rallying his troops in the midst of battle. He urges them “[o]nce more unto the breach, dear friends, once more,” showing that the English have broken through the French defenses and must push their advantage with hand-to-hand fighting. He invokes the courage, nobleness, and “mettle” of the English and exhorts his soldiers to remember and be worthy of their English “breeding.