Henry IV: Act II, Scene V

In Act 2.5.395-439, Falstaff and Harry were clearly in role play with Falstaff taking the role of Harry and Harry resuming the role of his father, the King. This scene is interesting for a number of reasons but most of all, it reveals not only what Harry views of his own father but also his own conscious or subconscious views of Falstaff himself. I think because of this, this particular part of this scene holds some importance. I would have both characters center stage and I would follow Shakespeare’s own instructions as well. Harry would be sitting, as if on a throne such as King is naturally though of. His demeanor and body language would indicate that of royalty, so he would sit up straight with his head held high but he would also look down at Falstaff, in a judgmental and condescending stance as well. Falstaff, on the other hand would be standing in a modest, almost pleading stance to show his humility as the King’s shameful son. Prince Harry would deliver this speech of Falstaff character in a menacing and cold approach, so that it would demonstrate the absolute disgust that Harry feels his father has towards men such as them. Falstaff, on the other hand would answer back in a forced, almost sarcastic and patronizing tone that reminds the audience that although his is role-playing as Harry, his character is still very much indeed Falstaff. There would be minimal props, just the chair that Harry sits upon. The setting would be minimal as well, to emphasize this particular segment.