Analysis of Act V scene iv of Shakespeares Henry IV

One of the most important aspects of 1 Henry IV is the development and transgressions of Hal who is the Prince of Wales and heir to the throne. The play's focus on the family reminds us that the struggles England endured through its growth were largely struggles inside the royal family. Hal's character is at a point where he is unable to define who he will be; a responsible part of the monarch, as his father …

…that this epiphany comes so near the end of the play brings Hal’s journey to an end, giving the play a sense of closure and resolve. Hal’s decision also serves to give his character psychological depth, and thus further differentiate him from the tavern characters. Hal’s discovery of princely honour functions to fulfil the concept of honour as an inherent trait of nobility and thus makes his separation from Falstaff an inevitability.