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First performed in 1599, Henry V is among the most popular of William Shakespeare’s history plays
. It is final of four plays portraying the historical rise of the English royal House of Lancaster—following Richard II, Henry IV, Part 1, and Henry IV, Part 2. It offers entertaining characters, memorable speeches, heroic battles, and valiant English underdogs who fight their way to victory against all odds. Additionally, King Henry (superficially, at least) seems to be a perfect leader—brave, modest, and fiercely focused, but with a sense of humor to match.Read the full play summary, the full play analysis, and explanations of important quotes from Henry IV.