Dec 25, 2009

Henry IV, Part One | Principal Topics

Language
The study of the language of Henry IV, Part One has focussed primarily on the use of prose and verse. Critics have examined how the use of prose and verse helps differentiate between the two worlds of the play. In the world of the tavern, Falstaffs world, prose is spoken, and in the world of the court, also identified as the historical world, verse is spoken. Hal, at ease m both worlds, uses the appropriate language when in the tavern or at court. Falstaff, in complete opposition to the courtly world, speaks only in prose. It has been noted that Hotspur...