the character of Hal in Henry

Maynard Mack credits Hal with having simply “met the claims of Hotspur’s world, of Falstaff’s, and of Henry’s, without narrowing himself to any one” and of having “brought into practical balance court, field and tavern.” Indeed, Hal, as heir to the throne and as a nobleman, has been trained in the arts of diplomacy, chivalry and military skills. However, he proves to be more than simply a well-trained prince with a natural …

…to a grand prince. He describes Hal as having “risen from the ground” and “vaulted”, seemingly without effort, into his “seat.” Additionally, he conjures up royal and noble imagery by using similes such as “All plumed like estridges” and “as gorgeous as the sun.” It is obvious that Hal’s reformation amazed and astonished the court; his scheme turned out to be a success and Hal proved himself able of creating his very own legend.