Consider what qualities would make a good king a good king--fair rule, restraint, compassion, and wisdom to name a few. The lengthy opening speech by King Henry in Shakespeare's King Henry does not leave the audience with the feeling that King Henry has everything under control in his kingdom. His first spoken line includes several negative words like shaken, wan with care, pant, and short-winded. A first impression drawn from this speech alone does not leave one with the feeling that King Henry is in control and includes indication of wars on the horizon--anything but a peaceful kingdom. As far as the man Henry--his speech alerts the audience that he is a man of god, "which fourteen hundred years ago were nailed, for our advantage, on the bitter cross"(1.1.25.). In addition, Henry tells us what he would like to do--start a religious crusade to rid the land once and for all of the pagans.
(Response 1.2) Prince Harry's opening line- "Thou art so fat-witted with drinking of old sack, and unbuttoning thee after supper, and sleeping upon benches after noon, that thou has forgotten to demand that truly which thou wouldst truly know"(1.2.2.) In this line we see possibly the real Prince as he wittingly admonishes Falstaff for his ways. I think Prince Harry views himself as being different from the rest of the pack. Shakespeare sets up a contrast between Prince Harry and his action.
(Response 1.3.123.) This line by Hotspur seems to show a lack of authority on the Kings part and an alliance with Mortimer. I mean it does seem like Hotspur would hand over the prisoners to the King. This drama indicates a foreshadowing of the relationship between the King and Mortimer and Hotspur woth notinh.
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