A Kings Rhetoric and National Unity in Henry V

Gerald Narmore (Research Paper)
Professor ONeil
EN 307
18 January 2007
A indexs Rhetoric and National Unity in atomic number 1 V
John S. Mebane is correct when he asserts that William Shakespeares Henry V is monolithic in its aggressive nationalism (Mebane). Other scholars plain agree, for the patriotic fervor personified in this play has been given large-minded contemporary critical attention. Much of this attention naturally attempts to hold in Shakespeares philosophic views regarding nationalism. For example, Mebane perceives in Henry V (Shakespeare) Shakespeares intent to present expressions of political chauvinism so intensely hyperbolic that they are ripe for the parody, ironic deflation, and anticlimax that closely inevitably follow (Mebane). Accordingly, the plays patriotic ornateness actually exposes the evilness of warfare, and Henrys actions as queen regnant are nothing more than pure Machiavellian indemnity (Mebane). A nearly opposite position is taken by John Mark Mattox in Henry V: Shakespeares Just Warrior. According to him, instead of presenting Henry as a manipulative, Machiavellian politician, Shakespeare actually portrays the king as a ace who pursues noble aims in a way that does not despoil Christian moral sensibilities (Mattox).



Other critical interpretations of Shakespeares word-painting of nationalism in Henry V tend to govern between these extremes.
Few critics, though, have examined Henrys singular success at unifying a diversity of practically hostile nationalities and social classes as one nation form for a common cause, at least judging from this indites research. Henrys ability to manipulate his subjects by means of rhetoric, though, has been extensively examined, but usually these efforts occur within the background of Henrys supposed pure Machiavellian indemnity (Mebane). Machiavellian policy, however, cannot account for the kings success in instilling national unity in his subjects, and efforts to Machiavellian-ize Henry appear...If you pauperism to get a full essay, order it on our website: Orderessay



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