This new addition to the Critical Insights series takes a close look at Shakespeare’s 1623 play, Henry V which chronicles the reign of the notorious medieval king from 1413 to 1422.

Although it was written centuries ago, Henry V explores many themes that are very much on the minds of today’s readers including progressive vs. conservative politics, nationalism and patriotism, pacifism, and defenses of war, to name a few.

In addition to exploring the play’s central themes, this volume offers a variety of fresh perspectives on related issues including gender, ethnicity, class, and morality, exploring the work as a reflection of its own times and as a work of art that has withstood the test of time.