Henry V Case

Henry V

Henry V was probably the greatest military leader that England ever had. His epic rise to power was captured for posterity in the writings of William Shakespeare in the play named for the king. Although a play, the story as told by Shakespeare was remarkably close to being historically accurate. This play was brought to the modern world in the film Henry V, which was written, directed by, and starred Kenneth Branagh in the title role as the young king. Through the course of the movie, Branagh painted a powerful picture of the evolution of Henry from a young and perhaps rambunctious boy into the man who would be known as a powerful and fair monarch. The film took the viewer from the time shortly after Henry assumed power, upon the death of his father Henry IV, through to the end of what can be argued as his greatest achievement, victory over France

To begin with the fact that the film was based on historical fact, that Henry was a "real" man who lived these experiences, made the content that much more poignant. Having watched the film and examined both the setbacks and triumphs of the king there were countless opportunities to have viewed leadership in action.

Secondly, having watched the film it would be hard for one to think of Henry in any way other than as a real leader. In the film, Branagh presented compelling examples of Henry's leadership. The Saint Crispian's day speech epitomized this leadership. Tired and hungry, sick with dysentery and in the middle of a retreat to England, Henry's army was encountered by the French at Agincourt. The British were vastly outnumbered, by some accounts five to one. Encouraged to retreat or surrender by his cousin Westmoreland, Henry gave an inspiring speech, relying on his charisma, which challenged the men to run headlong into certain death. Speeches such as Henry's Saint Crispian's speech are powerful in their ability to persuade others to take action.

In contrast, Henry acted with integrity and honesty, showing mercy to those he conquered, and taking no retribution on the people of France. Henry lived his values and was an example for all of his men to behold.

Taking these points into consideration I would say, that throughout the film, the viewer was presented with a great leader. He led his country through times of great change and turmoil at the culmination of the hundred-year war between France and England.