Young, restless and ambitious, Henry V inherits a troubled crown. With his family’s claim uncertain, Henry seeks to secure his position at home by turning the country’s attention abroad. Resurrecting a contested claim to the French crown he launches a hasty invasion of France.
Following a drawn out siege at Harfleur, Henry’s small army, ravaged by hunger and disease, is forced to retreat. Trapped by a far larger French force at Agincourt, Henry’s gamble appears on the point of disaster as the demoralised English turn and prepare for battle.
Shakespeare’s charismatic warrior King, Henry V’s aggressive pursuit of the French crown earns him iconic status, uniting England and France and briefly banishing the civil strife that will long outlive him.
Playing as part of the RSC History Cycle..