... be the father to so blest a son, A son who is the theme of honour's tongue; (I.1.78-81) His son Hal, as we know from Richard II, has been spending most of his time in taverns accompanied by a group of common scoundrels. Henry continues to lament his son's rowdy behavior and praises what ... he assumes is truly honorable conduct in Hotspur's blind ambition. Later in Act III, Henry IV chastises Hal for not being respected in the public opinion in the way Hotspur is. He also notes that Hotspur, like himself, had to ... prove his worth through battles and praises his fortitude; "To bloody ...

• Word Count: 1335
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School

... sets the tone of Henry and Hal's relationship as one of disappointment, frustration and letdown. However, one can look at Henry's expectations as hypocritical because Henry usurped the throne from Richard and did not obtain his throne by being princely, selfless or honorable. This puts into perspective why there is a divide between father and son and offers insights into their relationship ... with his father Henry. Henry tells Hal how disappointed he is in his son and even goes as far as comparing Hal to Richard II. Hal responds saying "I shall hereafter, my thrice-gracious lord,/ Be m...

• Word Count: 1571
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: High School