Henry IV, Part One - What is Falstaff's role in Henry IV part one?

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1. 
   gbeatty Teacher
   College - Freshman

   His role is essential, and for audiences, almost central. It is also multi-faceted. Most simply, he is an example of a common comic character type from the period, and so he is meant to be funny.

   However, to young Prince Hal, he is a substitute father figure, and one who offers acceptance without the heavy hand of expectations his real father raised.

   Falstaff is also a kind of worldly education; through him Hal learns about common people, and about the darknesses and complexities of the human spirit. In this odd way, Falstaff allows Hal to become a great king.

   Greg

   Sources:

   http://www.enotes.com/henry/36299

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   Posted by gbeatty on Monday February 19, 2007 at 11:35 AM