Reflections for Henry V

• I think the strengths of my essay were probably the selection of key scenes and how their meaning and significance to my argument are supportive and directly related. I think the quotes flow relatively well with the paper.
• If I were going to write another draft, I would try to strengthen my overall argument and thesis by making it a little bit more narrow or specific. I believe in my thesis and think that my argument is valid with relative evidence, but I think it would be a bit stronger if I made it more specific.
• There are various cultural beliefs, practices, and concerns that I observed while studying Henry V, most of which pertained to the way people interacted in England at this time. There was a rising sense of nationalism, for the military was on the uprise and the leadership of King Henry uplifted them to new heights. It was also very apparent that a lot of Englishmen and women had strong religious motives, and that they used God to reason for much of their surroundings and happenings.
• I find it interesting and exemplary at how patient the English are with their rulers and their loyalty to their country after generations of sub-par rulers. Both themes above tie together, for their strong religious roots are what secured them during the rough times, and they believed that God gave them a great ruler in King Henry.
• Clothing and the symbolism of status that it held is pretty apparent in both the Canterbury Tale’s and Henry V. I didn’t analyze this aspect for this paper on Shakespeare’s and Branagh’s work, but reflecting on the wardrobes found in the film, it is apparent that the themes run parallel. The wealthier, more influential folks, such as the king himself, the Archbishop, etc., wear lavish and bright, long clothes, while the commoners and soldiers have a darker, more grey color.