That hath not noble lustre in your eyes. I see you stand like greyhounds in the slips, Straining upon the start. The game’s afoot: Follow your spirit; and upon this charge, Cry ‘God for Harry, England, and Saint George!’
lustre: shine
Focus on ... monologues A monologue is a long speech by one character in a play or film.
Monologues usually reveal the character’s true feelings and desires. A monologue may be addressed to other characters or the audience.
Understand
1. Choose two quotes to suggest that Henry V’s speech encourages soldiers to fight with honour.
2. What true feelings are expressed by Henry V in this monologue?
3. How would you describe this monologue? Select one of the following and explain your choice. Patriotic
Passionate Explore
1. Former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, quoted from Henry V’s monologue when delivering a speech to the people of Britain during the Second World War. Choose an appropriate quote from the monologue which people could relate to at that time. Explain your choice.
2. Why is it important for leaders to boost morale and keep people’s spirits up in times of war?
3. Imagine you are directing the actor playing the part of Henry V. How would you instruct him to deliver these lines? Consider:
tone of voice facial expression
Investigate
Find a monologue in a play or film you have studied. Which character is speaking? What is revealed? Select the line from the monologue that you find most revealing.
