28th Annual Student Research Conference
The Limits of Power and the Abuses of Authority in King Henry V
Jesse R. Dinkins
Dr. Hena Ahmad, Faculty Mentor
In King Henry V, William Shakespeare demonstrates the discrete balance between justified uses of power and when the exercise of power goes too far. Various scholars argue that kings such as King Henry V used their power to feel authoritative and such behavior was an abuse of authority. This paper will study how King Henry's actions condemn his morality and how his duties during wartime allowed for such uses of power. It will explore examples of controversial actions he takes throughout the play, such as his invasion of France. In this analysis, the paper will discuss whether or not the action or decision criminalizes King Henry as an immoral king; was the action or aforementioned decision righteous and justifiable in order to protect the country and succeed as a good leader, or did his actions serve as an abuse of authority in order to flaunt his ultimate power?
Keywords: Shakespeare, King Henry V, Literature, Power
Topic(s):English
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 303-4
Location: VH 1224
Time: 1:45