For this week: Read and watch King Henry V. Notice that this publishing of King Henry V has a modern and an original version of the play. Use the modern version only when you have trouble understanding the original. 

As you read, complete these assignments and be prepared to discuss your answers with the class:

1. Search the internet for a plot synopsis of King Henry V and read it. Become familiar with the storyline before interacting with the original work. 
2. Read King Henry V. As you read, note any words or phrases or references that are challenging. Look up these items so that you have complete understanding of what you are reading. 
3. Watch Henry V here for free, or a modern version here on Prime. How was your experience watching the play different than your experience reading the play? 
4. After you have read and watched the play, consider these questions and write at least one paragraph as an answer to each question.
   1. What are the main events of importance in Henry V?
   2. Who are the main characters in the play? 
   3. What is/are the sub plot(s) in this play? Which characters are involved in the sub-plot(s) and how do/does the sub-plot(s) relate to the main plot of the play?
   4. What do you believe is the purpose of the companions from the Boar’s Head Tavern? 
   5. Shakespeare uses the monologue/speech to enhance the plot and let the audience in on what a character’s true intentions are. In Henry V, the St. Crispin’s Day speech is one of the most famous of Shakespeare’s monologues. How does this speech enhance the theme of courage and explain how courage in this case exemplifies Aristotle’s Golden Mean for this virtue. Remember, Aristotle’s Golden Mean is the mean between the two extremes of any characteristic. In this case, courage is the mean between the extremes of cowardliness and recklessness. 
   6. Besides courage, what other themes do you find run throughout the play? Describe at least 3 of them and prepare to present your analysis of at least one of these themes to the class. 
   7. How do you think the characters compare to modern political and military characters? How would leaders act today?