Theme of Truth in Henry the V Essay Example

In Henry the V, King Henry values the truth above all else. Through experiences it shows not only why he values the truth, but the problems of what a king faces. Yet, despite valuing the truth very highly, he cannot obtain it most of the time as a king which leads the decisions in many outcomes.

Toward  the opening of the book it is revealed that Henry knows about some lords who are traitors. Henry uses this opportunity to show his perspective on truth to those around him.  He begins to show it by asking the traitors what they would do to a traitor. They say they would execute the traitor swiftly and decisively without mercy. When Henry reveals he has found out about them, they try to flatter him instead of just stating the truth and Henry condemns them for it.

Equally important is later in the book a character named Pistol is revealed to be a drunkard . But through several encounters, it's revealed that Pistol almost always speaks the truth. He values it because he can use it as a tool against people to call them out, yet when asked by Henry while he was disguised in the camp. He says “The king's a bawcock, and a heart of gold, A lad of life, an imp of fame; Of parents good, of fist most valiant. I kiss his dirty shoe, and from the heart-string I love the lovely bully. “ This is to show that although the King has his faults he thinks him to be a pretty good guy.

Later we learn of a character named William. When the King sneaks out in the night disguised he talks with William. William says the King is a coward and is just saying things to make them feel inspired rather than what he actually thinks. They use gloves to challenge each other to a duel. Later the King confronts William and accuses him and because of what William said it could be considered treason, which could be punishable by death. WIlliam defends himself by saying what he said is all true and that he wouldn't have said that if the king were not disguised. He says this as he could be executed by the king if he were to do such a thing publicly.t Rather than trying to hide the fact he accused the king he openly confronts him. He gives the King the truth and Henry in turn spares his life for it. Further proving that he values the truth.

To illustrate that Henry values the truth. The book gives us several examples. The first one we get of the traitors tells us why Henry just can't ask for the truth. The second example of Pistol is to show that Henry isn't just doing it for looks or to lie to his men. The third is to show how he reacts to the true truth. In short all these examples come together to make a strong point that King Henry not only values the truth, But puts it above all else.