Henry VI, Part 1
by
William Shakespeare
Henry VI, Part 1 is a historical play that follows the events surrounding the reign of King Henry VI of England. The play begins with the death of King Henry V, and the ascension of his young son, Henry VI, to the throne. The young king is inexperienced and is easily manipulated by the powerful men around him.
The play focuses on the ongoing conflict between England and France during the Hundred Years' War. The French, led by Joan of Arc, are gaining ground and winning battles against the English. Meanwhile, in England, there is political unrest as factions within the court vie for power and influence over the king.
The play also features the character of Richard Plantagenet, a nobleman who is dissatisfied with the current state of affairs in England. He believes he has a claim to the throne and begins to plot against the king. Eventually, a civil war breaks out between the supporters of the king and those of Richard Plantagenet.
The play ends with the English losing the battle of Orleans to the French, and the death of Joan of Arc. The young king is left to face the consequences of his poor leadership and the growing instability in his kingdom.
Act I
Act 1 of Henry VI, Part 1 begins with the funeral of King Henry V. His son, also named Henry, is now the king of England but he is only a baby. The Duke of Gloucester, the late king's brother, is named Protector of the Realm until the young king comes of age.
Meanwhile, the French are preparing for war with England. The Duke of Orleans writes a love letter to Margaret of Anjou, a French princess who is betrothed to Henry VI. The letter is intercepted by the Earl of Suffolk who sees it as an opportunity to manipulate the French and potentially gain power in England.
Joan la Pucelle, a young woman who claims to have divine powers, is introduced. She convinces the Dauphin of France to let her lead his army against the English. The French and English armies meet at Rouen and a battle ensues. The English are victorious, but the French are not deterred.
Back in England, the Duke of Gloucester is having trouble keeping the peace. The Duke of Somerset and the Earl of Suffolk are vying for power and the people are unhappy with the high taxes. The situation is made worse when news arrives that the English have lost the city of Orleans to the French.
The act ends with the French celebrating their victory and planning their next move, while the English are left to deal with their internal struggles and the looming threat of a French invasion.
SCENE I. Westminster Abbey.
Scene 1 of Act 1 of Henry VI, Part 1 begins with a conversation between two noblemen, the Duke of Bedford and the Earl of Gloucester. They discuss the recent death of the king and the challenges that lie ahead in maintaining peace in England. The Duke of Bedford expresses concern about the French, who are likely to take advantage of England's weakened state, while the Earl of Gloucester suggests that they should focus on quelling the rebellious factions within their own country. As they are speaking, a third nobleman, the Bishop of Winchester, joins them. He is an ally of the Duke of Gloucester and quickly becomes embroiled in an argument with the Duke of Bedford over who should be appointed as the new Lord Protector. The Bishop of Winchester argues that he should be given the position, while the Duke of Bedford insists that it should go to the Duke of Gloucester. The argument becomes heated and the Bishop of Winchester accuses the Duke of Gloucester of being a traitor. The Duke of Gloucester responds by challenging him to a duel, but the Duke of Bedford intervenes and prevents any violence from occurring. The scene ends with the three nobles still arguing and no clear resolution in sight.
Dead March. Enter the Funeral of KING HENRY the Fifth, attended on by Dukes of BEDFORD, Regent of France; GLOUCESTER, Protector; and EXETER, Earl of WARWICK, the BISHOP OF WINCHESTER, Heralds, c
Enter a Messenger
Enter to them another Messenger
Enter another Messenger
Exit
Exit
Exit
Exeunt
SCENE II. France. Before Orleans.
Scene 2 of Act 1 begins with the entrance of King Henry V’s funeral procession. His widow, Queen Catherine, follows the casket, accompanied by her attendants. The Duke of Gloucester, the Protector of England, and the Bishop of Winchester exchange insults regarding the possession of the late king’s papers. The Duke of Bedford, the late king’s brother, intervenes and orders them to stop arguing and follow the casket to the burial site. The scene then shifts to France, where Joan la Pucelle, a young woman claiming to be a messenger from God, successfully convinces the French army to fight against the English. The Duke of Orleans and the Countess of Auvergne are skeptical of her claims, but she manages to prove her powers by revealing their true identities and secrets. The French are impressed and decide to follow her lead. Meanwhile, in England, the Duke of Gloucester accuses the Bishop of Winchester of treason for conspiring with the French and withholding the late king’s papers. The Duke of Exeter tries to reconcile the two, but they continue to argue. The scene ends with the Duke of Gloucester being arrested for his accusations against the bishop.
Sound a flourish. Enter CHARLES, ALENCON, and REIGNIER, marching with drum and Soldiers
Exeunt
Here alarum; they are beaten back by the English with great loss. Re-enter CHARLES, ALENCON, and REIGNIER
Enter the BASTARD OF ORLEANS
Re-enter the BASTARD OF ORLEANS, with JOAN LA PUCELLE
Here they fight, and JOAN LA PUCELLE overcomes
Exeunt
SCENE III. London. Before the Tower.
Scene 3 of Act 1 begins with the Duke of Bedford, who serves as the Regent of France, discussing the ongoing war with the Earl of Warwick and the Earl of Salisbury. They discuss the recent losses that the English army has suffered at the hands of the French, and how they must come up with a strategy to turn the tide of the war. After some discussion, they decide that they will split up their forces and attempt to take control of different regions of France. As they continue to talk, Joan la Pucelle, a young French woman who claims to have received visions from God, enters the scene. She mocks the English leaders and prophesies that the French army will soon emerge victorious. Bedford and his companions are skeptical of her claims, but Joan insists that she is telling the truth. Eventually, the men decide that they must take action against Joan, and they leave to prepare for battle. Joan remains on stage and delivers a soliloquy in which she expresses her determination to fight for her country and defeat the English. She declares that she is not afraid of death, and that she will continue to receive guidance from God as she leads the French army in battle. The scene ends with Joan departing to join the French army, and the English leaders preparing for battle. It is clear that tensions are high and that both sides are determined to emerge victorious in the ongoing conflict.
Enter GLOUCESTER, with his Serving-men in blue coats
Gloucester's men rush at the Tower Gates, and WOODVILE the Lieutenant speaks within
Enter to the Protector at the Tower Gates BISHOP OF WINCHESTER and his men in tawny coats
Here GLOUCESTER's men beat out BISHOP OF WINCHESTER's men, and enter in the hurly- burly the Mayor of London and his Officers
Here they skirmish again
Exeunt, severally, GLOUCESTER and BISHOP OF WINCHESTER with their Serving-men
Exeunt
SCENE IV. Orleans.
Scene 4 of Act 1 follows the Duke of Gloucester as he confronts the Bishop of Winchester over his misuse of power and corruption. Gloucester accuses Winchester of manipulating the young King Henry VI and causing division within the kingdom. Winchester denies the accusations and accuses Gloucester of being jealous of his power and influence over the king. Their argument escalates into a physical altercation, but they are quickly separated by other members of the court. The scene ends with the arrival of the Duke of York, who suggests that the only way to restore order is for the nobles to unite and work together for the good of the kingdom.
Enter, on the walls, a Master Gunner and his Boy
Exit
Exit
Enter, on the turrets, SALISBURY and TALBOT, GLANSDALE, GARGRAVE, and others
Enter the Boy with a linstock
Here they shoot. SALISBURY and GARGRAVE fall
Enter a Messenger
Here SALISBURY lifteth himself up and groans
Alarum. Exeunt
SCENE V. The same.
In Scene 5 of Act 1, a group of nobles gather in the palace to discuss the ongoing conflict between England and France. The Duke of Gloucester, the Lord Protector, is concerned about the recent loss of territories to the French and proposes a plan to send troops to retake them. However, the Bishop of Winchester opposes the plan, as he believes it will lead to unnecessary bloodshed and expense. The two men engage in a heated argument, with other nobles taking sides. Eventually, the Bishop of Winchester is outvoted and the decision is made to send troops to France. Meanwhile, a young Frenchwoman named Joan la Pucelle arrives at the court of the Dauphin, the heir to the French throne. She claims to have visions from God and offers to lead the French army to victory against the English. The Dauphin is skeptical at first, but Joan convinces him of her sincerity and he agrees to give her a chance. As she leaves to prepare for battle, the English nobles receive news of her arrival and begin to fear the power of this mysterious woman. The scene ends with the Duke of Bedford, who is in charge of the English forces in France, receiving word that the French have retaken the city of Orleans. He is disappointed but determined to continue the fight, as he believes that England's honor is at stake. The stage is set for a long and bloody conflict between the two nations, with characters on both sides grappling with questions of duty, honor, and faith.
Here an alarum again: and TALBOT pursueth the DAUPHIN, and driveth him: then enter JOAN LA PUCELLE, driving Englishmen before her, and exit after them then re-enter TALBOT
Here they fight
They fight again
Exit
Exit TALBOT. Alarum; retreat; flourish
SCENE VI. The same.
Scene 6 of Act 1 begins with King Henry VI sitting in his throne room, surrounded by his advisors and courtiers. He expresses his desire for peace and unity in the kingdom, but is interrupted by a dispute between Richard Plantagenet and the Duke of Somerset. Plantagenet claims that he is the rightful heir to the throne, and accuses Somerset of being a traitor to the crown. Somerset denies the accusation and insults Plantagenet, prompting the two men to draw their swords and engage in a duel. The fight is eventually broken up by the other courtiers, and King Henry orders both men to be arrested. As they are taken away, Henry laments the fact that his kingdom is divided and faces threats from both within and without. The scene is significant in that it sets up the conflict between Plantagenet and Somerset, which will play a major role in the rest of the play and its sequels. It also establishes King Henry as a somewhat weak and indecisive ruler, who struggles to maintain order in a turbulent time.
Enter, on the walls, JOAN LA PUCELLE, CHARLES, REIGNIER, ALENCON, and Soldiers
Flourish. Exeunt
Act II
Act 2 of Henry VI, Part 1 begins with the Duke of Gloucester, Lord Protector of England, speaking to his wife about his concerns regarding the state of the kingdom. He fears that the French will take advantage of England's current political instability and invade. Meanwhile, the French are preparing for war, and Joan la Pucelle, a young French maiden, claims to have received a vision from God instructing her to fight for France.
In England, the Earl of Suffolk is sent to negotiate a peace treaty with the French. However, he has other motives and intends to broker a deal that will allow him to marry Margaret, a member of the French royal family, and gain power and influence. Suffolk meets with Margaret and they are immediately drawn to each other.
Back in France, Joan la Pucelle proves herself to be a formidable warrior, leading the French army to several victories against the English. She captures the Duke of Orleans, a prominent English nobleman, and taunts him with her prophetic abilities.
In England, the Duke of Gloucester is arrested on charges of treason, and his wife pleads with the King to spare his life. The Earl of Suffolk returns from France with Margaret as his bride, and they are welcomed into the English court. However, their relationship is met with disapproval from many, including the Duke of Gloucester's ally, the Duke of York.
The act ends with the French army advancing towards the English, led by Joan la Pucelle, who is confident in her ability to defeat the English forces.
SCENE I. Before Orleans.
Scene 1 of Act 2 opens with a conversation between two soldiers, one of whom is named Talbot. They discuss the recent French victory in the Battle of Rouen and the English losses. Talbot is confident that they will eventually triumph over the French, but the other soldier is less optimistic. They are interrupted by the arrival of a messenger who brings news that the Duke of Bedford has died and that the Duke of Gloucester will now be in charge of the English army in France. Talbot is disappointed by this news, as he believes that Gloucester is not capable of leading the army to victory. He is also worried about the French gaining more ground in the ongoing conflict. The messenger informs them that the French have captured the town of Orléans, which is a major setback for the English. Talbot decides to go to the aid of the English soldiers who are currently defending the town. The scene ends with Talbot expressing his determination to fight for England and defeat the French. He is confident that his leadership and military prowess will lead the English to victory, despite the recent setbacks they have experienced. The soldiers agree to follow him into battle, and they set off to Orléans to confront the French army.
Enter a Sergeant of a band with two Sentinels
Enter TALBOT, BEDFORD, BURGUNDY, and Forces, with scaling-ladders, their drums beating a dead march
Cry: 'St. George,' 'A Talbot.'
The French leap over the walls in their shirts. Enter, several ways, the BASTARD OF ORLEANS, ALENCON, and REIGNIER, half ready, and half unready
Enter CHARLES and JOAN LA PUCELLE
Alarum. Enter an English Soldier, crying 'A Talbot! a Talbot!' They fly, leaving their clothes behind
Exit
SCENE II. Orleans. Within the town.
In Scene 2 of Act 2 of Henry VI, Part 1, two noblemen, Gloucester and Winchester, argue over who should be named Lord Protector of England while the king is still a minor. Gloucester believes that the position should go to him, as he is the king's uncle and has proven himself to be a capable leader. Winchester, however, argues that he should be named Lord Protector as he is a bishop and therefore more experienced in matters of governance. The two men trade insults and accusations, with Gloucester accusing Winchester of being corrupt and power-hungry, and Winchester accusing Gloucester of being reckless and unfit to rule. The argument eventually turns physical, with the two men drawing their swords and threatening each other. At this point, the Duke of York enters the scene and attempts to mediate the dispute. He suggests that a council be formed to govern the country until the king comes of age, and that both Gloucester and Winchester be named as members of the council. Gloucester agrees to this proposal, but Winchester is still unhappy and refuses to back down. The scene ends with the Duke of York warning both men that their behavior is unbecoming of their station and that they should put aside their personal grievances for the good of the country.
Enter TALBOT, BEDFORD, BURGUNDY, a Captain, and others
Retreat sounded
Enter a Messenger
Exeunt
SCENE III. Auvergne. The COUNTESS's castle.
In Scene 3 of Act 2, a battle is about to take place between the armies of England and France. The English army is led by the Duke of Bedford, while the French army is led by the Countess of Auvergne. The Countess has poisoned the Duke's wine, but she has also fallen in love with him and cannot bring herself to see him die. As the battle begins, the Duke drinks the poisoned wine and begins to feel the effects. The Countess rushes to his aid and reveals that she has poisoned him, but then she also reveals her love for him. The Duke is initially angry and accuses her of treachery, but soon he realizes that he loves her as well. Despite their feelings for each other, the Duke is still dying from the poison. The Countess begs for his forgiveness and offers to give him an antidote, but it is too late. The Duke dies in her arms, and the Countess is left to mourn his loss. Meanwhile, the battle rages on around them. The French forces are initially winning, but the arrival of reinforcements for the English turns the tide. The French are defeated, and the English emerge victorious. The scene is a powerful illustration of the themes of love and war that run throughout the play. It shows how even in the midst of conflict and violence, human emotions and relationships can still hold sway. Despite their differences and their roles as enemies, the Duke and the Countess are able to find a connection with each other that transcends the battlefield.
Enter the COUNTESS and her Porter
Exit
Enter Messenger and TALBOT
Re-enter Porter with keys
Exeunt
SCENE IV. London. The Temple-garden.
Scene 4 of Act 2 portrays a battle between the English and French armies near Orleans. The English forces, led by Talbot, are outnumbered and struggle to hold their ground. The French are confident and taunt the English soldiers, but Talbot remains determined to win the battle. As the fighting intensifies, Talbot's son John is killed in battle. Talbot is devastated by the loss and vows to avenge his son's death. Despite his grief, Talbot rallies his troops and leads a successful charge against the French forces. The French are forced to retreat, and the English claim victory. The scene is filled with intense action and emotional turmoil as the characters fight for their lives and their beliefs. The death of John Talbot serves as a tragic reminder of the cost of war, but it also inspires his father to fight even harder for his cause.
Enter the Earls of SOMERSET, SUFFOLK, and WARWICK; RICHARD PLANTAGENET, VERNON, and another Lawyer
Exit
Exit
Exeunt
SCENE V. The Tower of London.
Scene 5 of Act 2 of Henry VI, Part 1 opens with a conversation between Joan La Pucelle, a Frenchwoman, and her compatriots who are preparing for battle against the English. Joan is confident that they will win, despite being outnumbered, because she has made a deal with the devil. She summons a demon who promises to help her in exchange for her soul. Joan agrees and the demon disappears. The English forces arrive and Joan leads the French into battle. Despite being initially successful, the French are eventually defeated and Joan is captured by the English. Joan is brought before the Duke of Gloucester and the Bishop of Winchester, who accuse her of witchcraft and heresy. Joan denies the charges and claims that she has only been able to achieve her victories through the help of God. However, the Duke and the Bishop are convinced of her guilt and sentence her to be burned at the stake. As she is led away, Joan curses the English and predicts their downfall. The scene ends with the Duke and the Bishop discussing the potential threat that Joan could pose if she were to escape execution.
Enter MORTIMER, brought in a chair, and Gaolers
Enter RICHARD PLANTAGENET
Dies
Exit
Act III
Act 3 of Henry VI, Part 1 follows the conflict between the Houses of York and Lancaster for the English throne. The Duke of York, who believes he is the rightful heir, leads his allies against King Henry VI and his supporters.
The act begins with a battle between the two factions, where the Yorkists emerge victorious. Afterwards, the Duke of York claims the throne and is supported by his sons Edward and Richard. However, the queen and her allies refuse to accept his claim and the war continues.
In an attempt to gain an advantage, the queen sends her army to attack the city of York. The Duke of York's sons, Edward and Richard, lead the defense and manage to repel the attackers. During the battle, the Duke of York is captured and taken prisoner by the queen's forces.
The act ends with the Duke of York's sons vowing to rescue their father and continue their fight for the throne. The conflict between the two sides escalates, setting the stage for further battles and political intrigue in the later acts.
SCENE I. London. The Parliament-house.
Act 3, Scene 1 takes place in France, where the English army is preparing for battle against the French army. The Duke of Bedford, who is leading the English army, receives a message from Lord Fastolfe that the French army is approaching. Bedford orders his soldiers to prepare for battle and to be ready to defend their position. As the French army approaches, the English soldiers become nervous and fearful. The French army is much larger and looks intimidating. However, the English soldiers manage to keep their composure and are ready to fight. The battle begins, and both sides fight fiercely. The French soldiers are skilled and experienced, but the English soldiers are determined to defend their position. The English soldiers manage to hold their ground, and the French soldiers begin to retreat. As the French soldiers retreat, the English soldiers pursue them. However, the English soldiers are ambushed by a group of French soldiers who were hiding in a nearby forest. The English soldiers are caught off guard and are unable to defend themselves. The Duke of Bedford arrives with reinforcements and manages to drive back the French soldiers. The English soldiers are able to regroup and continue the battle. The French soldiers are eventually defeated, and the English soldiers emerge victorious. The scene ends with the Duke of Bedford praising the bravery and courage of his soldiers. He orders his soldiers to rest and prepare for the next battle, as they will likely face more challenges in the future.
Flourish. Enter KING HENRY VI, EXETER, GLOUCESTER, WARWICK, SOMERSET, and SUFFOLK; the BISHOP OF WINCHESTER, RICHARD PLANTAGENET, and others. GLOUCESTER offers to put up a bill; BISHOP OF WINCHESTER snatches it, and tears it
A noise again, 'Stones! stones!' Enter Mayor
Enter Serving-men, in skirmish, with bloody pates
Skirmish again
Begin again
Exeunt Serving-men, Mayor, c
Sennet. Flourish. Exeunt all but EXETER
Exit
SCENE II. France. Before Rouen.
Scene 2 of Act 3 of Henry VI, Part 1 follows the meeting of two armies in a battlefield. The English army, led by Talbot, engages in a fierce battle with the French army, led by Joan of Arc. As the battle rages on, Talbot and his son, John, find themselves outnumbered and surrounded by the French army. In a desperate attempt to save his son's life, Talbot sends him away with a few soldiers, while he stays to fight off the French on his own. Meanwhile, Joan of Arc and her soldiers capture the English stronghold, and take many of Talbot's soldiers as prisoners. Talbot, who has been fighting valiantly, is captured by the French and brought before Joan of Arc. Joan, who believes herself to be a divine messenger, taunts Talbot and tells him that he will be defeated and killed by the French. Talbot, unafraid, challenges Joan to single combat. However, Joan refuses, claiming that it is beneath her to fight a man. In the end, Talbot is taken away as a prisoner, and the French army celebrates their victory. However, Talbot's defeat is not the end of the English resistance, and the war between the two nations continues.
Enter JOAN LA PUCELLE disguised, with four Soldiers with sacks upon their backs
Knocks
Exeunt
Enter CHARLES, the BASTARD OF ORLEANS, ALENCON, REIGNIER, and forces
Enter JOAN LA PUCELLE on the top, thrusting out a torch burning
Exit
Alarum. Exeunt
An alarum. Enter TALBOT in an excursion
Exit
An alarum: excursions. BEDFORD, brought in sick in a chair. Enter TALBOT and BURGUNDY without: within JOAN LA PUCELLE, CHARLES, BASTARD OF ORLEANS, ALENCON, and REIGNIER, on the walls
Exeunt from the walls
Exeunt all but BEDFORD and Attendants
An alarum: excursions. Enter FASTOLFE and a Captain
Exit
Exit
Retreat: excursions. JOAN LA PUCELLE, ALENCON, and CHARLES fly
BEDFORD dies, and is carried in by two in his chair
An alarum. Re-enter TALBOT, BURGUNDY, and the rest
Exeunt
SCENE III. The plains near Rouen.
In Scene 3 of Act 3, a battle takes place between the English and the French armies. The English, led by Talbot, are outnumbered and struggling to hold their ground as the French troops advance. Talbot is determined to keep fighting, despite the odds against him. As the battle rages on, Talbot's son John is killed in combat. Talbot is devastated by his son's death, but he refuses to give up the fight. He rallies his troops and leads them into battle once again, determined to avenge his son's death. The French continue to push forward, and Talbot finds himself facing off against the French general, the Countess of Auvergne. The Countess challenges Talbot to single combat, and he accepts, hoping to prove his valor and win the battle. However, the Countess has a trick up her sleeve. She has coated her armor with a poisonous substance, which she uses to weaken Talbot during their fight. Talbot begins to feel the effects of the poison and starts to lose his strength. Despite the odds against him, Talbot fights on, determined to defeat the Countess and win the battle for England. However, as the poison takes hold, he begins to falter, and the Countess is able to strike a fatal blow. Talbot dies on the battlefield, surrounded by his loyal soldiers. The English army is left without their greatest warrior, and the French emerge victorious. The scene ends with the French celebrating their victory, while the English mourn their loss.
Enter CHARLES, the BASTARD OF ORLEANS, ALENCON, JOAN LA PUCELLE, and forces
Trumpets sound a parley
Exeunt
SCENE IV. Paris. The palace.
Scene 4 of Act 3 of Henry VI, Part 1 takes place on a battlefield in France. The English army, led by the Duke of Bedford, is preparing to fight against the French army, led by the Duke of Alencon. The two armies exchange insults and then begin to fight. During the battle, the French gain the upper hand and the English begin to retreat. However, the arrival of reinforcements led by John Talbot gives the English a new hope. Talbot is a skilled warrior and inspires his men to fight harder. He kills several French soldiers and gains ground for the English. As the battle continues, both sides suffer losses. Talbot's son is killed in battle and he is devastated. However, he continues to fight and eventually kills the Duke of Alencon. The French army is forced to retreat and the English emerge victorious. The scene ends with Talbot mourning the loss of his son and reflecting on the brutality of war. He says that war is a curse and wishes that he could die on the battlefield with his son. The scene is a powerful depiction of the horrors of war and the personal sacrifices that warriors must make in order to win.
Enter KING HENRY VI, GLOUCESTER, BISHOP OF WINCHESTER, YORK, SUFFOLK, SOMERSET, WARWICK, EXETER, VERNON BASSET, and others. To them with his Soldiers, TALBOT
Kneels
Sennet. Flourish. Exeunt all but VERNON and BASSET
Strikes him
Exeunt
Act IV
Act 4 of Henry VI, Part 1 sees the Duke of York and his army victorious over Henry VI's forces. They capture the king and take him to their stronghold at the Tower of London. York is declared Lord Protector and plans to rule over England until Henry VI's son, Prince Edward, comes of age.
Meanwhile, the Earl of Suffolk arranges to have Henry VI's wife, Queen Margaret, taken prisoner and sent to France. He hopes to use her as a bargaining chip to secure peace with the French.
However, the Duke of Somerset, a loyal supporter of Henry VI, rallies the remaining English forces and prepares to fight back against York's rule. He also frees the captured Lord Talbot, who joins his cause.
The act ends with an epic battle between York's forces and Somerset's, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The outcome of the battle is left uncertain, as the play continues in Part 2.
SCENE I. Paris. A hall of state.
The scene opens with a group of soldiers discussing the current state of the war between England and France. They are concerned about the recent losses suffered by the English army, and wonder if they will be able to continue fighting. Suddenly, a messenger arrives with news that the French have taken a key English stronghold, and that the Duke of Bedford has died. This news only adds to the soldiers' fears and doubts. Just then, the Earl of Suffolk arrives with Margaret of Anjou, who has been betrothed to King Henry VI. He tells the soldiers that Margaret is their new queen, and that she has come to help lead them in battle. The soldiers are skeptical of Margaret's abilities and question why she has been chosen to lead them. Suffolk defends Margaret's honor and promises that she will prove herself to be a capable leader. Margaret then takes the stage and delivers a stirring speech, inspiring the soldiers to rise up and fight for their country. She promises to be a strong and just ruler, and asks for the soldiers' loyalty and support. The soldiers are moved by her words and pledge their allegiance to her and to England. The scene ends with Margaret and Suffolk leaving to prepare for battle, while the soldiers remain behind, ready to fight for their queen and their country.
Enter KING HENRY VI, GLOUCESTER, BISHOP OF WINCHESTER, YORK, SUFFOLK, SOMERSET, WARWICK, TALBOT, EXETER, the Governor, of Paris, and others
Enter FASTOLFE
Exit
Enter VERNON and BASSET
Flourish. Exeunt all but YORK, WARWICK, EXETER and VERNON
Exeunt all but EXETER
Exit
SCENE II. Before Bourdeaux.
Scene 2 of Act 4 takes place in a garden where two nobles, Suffolk and Margaret, are having a conversation. Suffolk tells Margaret that he has been successful in gaining the King's favor and that he has convinced the King to marry her. Margaret is pleased with this news and expresses her love for Suffolk. Suffolk then tells Margaret that they must keep their relationship a secret because the King is already married. As they continue to talk, a messenger arrives with news that the Duke of York is leading an army against the King. Margaret suggests that Suffolk should join the King's army to fight against the Duke of York. Suffolk agrees and leaves to join the army. After Suffolk leaves, Margaret is left alone and she delivers a soliloquy in which she reveals her ambition and desire for power. She believes that Suffolk is the key to achieving her goals and she vows to do whatever it takes to keep him by her side. Overall, Scene 2 of Act 4 sets the stage for the upcoming battle between the King's army and the Duke of York's army. It also highlights the political intrigue and ambition that are prevalent among the characters in the play.
Enter TALBOT, with trump and drum
Exeunt General, c
Exeunt
SCENE III. Plains in Gascony.
Scene 3 of Act 4 begins with a battle between the English and French armies. The English, led by Talbot, are outnumbered and struggling to hold their position. Talbot sends a messenger to the Duke of Bedford, asking for reinforcements, but the messenger is killed before he can deliver the message. Meanwhile, the French are celebrating their victory, but their joy is short-lived. Joan La Pucelle, a powerful French witch, arrives on the scene and begins to work her magic. She summons evil spirits to aid the French army and curses Talbot, promising to kill him in battle. Despite the odds against them, Talbot and his men fight on. They manage to hold their ground until nightfall, when the French finally retreat. Talbot is left alone on the battlefield, wounded and surrounded by the bodies of his fallen comrades. As Talbot lies dying, he reflects on his life and the futility of war. He is visited by his son, who has come to say goodbye. Talbot urges his son to continue fighting for England, and then dies. The scene ends with the arrival of the Duke of Burgundy, who has switched sides and is now fighting for the English. He discovers Talbot's body and swears revenge on the French for his death.
Enter a Messenger that meets YORK. Enter YORK with trumpet and many Soldiers
Enter Sir William LUCY
Exit, with his soldiers
Exit
SCENE IV. Other plains in Gascony.
In Scene 4 of Act 4, a battle takes place between the English and French armies. The English, led by Talbot, are outnumbered and struggling to hold their ground. However, Talbot's son, John, arrives with reinforcements and they manage to turn the tide of the battle. The French are defeated and many are taken prisoner. Despite their victory, Talbot is devastated to learn that his son has been killed in the battle. He mourns his loss and vows to seek revenge on the French. Meanwhile, the French leaders are also grieving the loss of their soldiers and are planning their next move. The scene is full of action and emotion as the characters experience the highs and lows of battle. It also sets the stage for future conflicts between the English and French armies, as both sides are determined to come out on top. Overall, Scene 4 of Act 4 is a pivotal moment in the play, as it marks a turning point in the war and sets the stage for future conflicts and political intrigue.
Enter SOMERSET, with his army; a Captain of TALBOT's with him
Enter Sir William LUCY
Exeunt
SCENE V. The English camp near Bourdeaux.
In Scene 5 of Act 4, a battle is raging between the English and French armies. The Duke of Bedford leads the English, while the French are led by the Countess of Auvergne. The English are struggling, as their troops are exhausted and outnumbered. However, they manage to hold their own against the French for some time. During the battle, the Countess of Auvergne captures the Duke of Bedford. She takes him to her tent and tries to seduce him. The Duke resists her advances, but she manages to get him to drink a potion that makes him fall asleep. While the Duke is sleeping, the Countess reveals her plan to kill him. She orders her servants to tie him up and prepare a cauldron of boiling water. However, the Duke wakes up just in time and manages to break free. He fights off the Countess and her servants and escapes from the tent. After the Duke's escape, the English rally and manage to defeat the French. The Countess is captured and brought before the English leaders. She admits to trying to kill the Duke and asks for mercy. The Duke, however, demands that she be executed for her treachery. The scene ends with the Countess being led away to her execution, and the English celebrating their victory over the French.
Enter TALBOT and JOHN his son
Exeunt
SCENE VI. A field of battle.
In Scene 6 of Act 4 of Henry VI, Part 1, two opposing armies are preparing for battle. The Earl of Suffolk, a commander for the English, talks with Margaret of Anjou, the Queen of England, about his plan to defeat the French army. He tells her that he will send his troops to attack the French from the rear, while the main English army attacks from the front. Margaret approves of his plan and praises him for his intelligence and bravery. Meanwhile, on the French side, the Duke of Alencon and his allies discuss their strategy for the upcoming battle. They decide to split their army in two, with one group attacking the English from the front and the other group attacking from the rear. They believe that this will give them the advantage and ensure victory. As the battle begins, the English and French armies clash fiercely. The English initially gain the upper hand, but soon the French reinforcements arrive and turn the tide of the battle. The English are forced to retreat, and many are killed or captured. Despite the loss, Suffolk and Margaret remain confident and vow to continue the fight. They believe that with the right strategy and determination, they can still defeat the French and emerge victorious in the ongoing conflict.
Alarum: excursions, wherein JOHN TALBOT is hemmed about, and TALBOT rescues him
Exeunt
SCENE VII. Another part of the field.
Scene 7 of Act 4 takes place in a battlefield where the armies of England and France are about to engage in a battle. The French commander, Joan of Arc, is confident of victory and urges her army to fight fiercely. The English commander, Talbot, is also confident and rallies his troops to fight bravely. The battle begins and both sides fight fiercely. Talbot and his son John fight side by side and manage to kill several French soldiers. Joan of Arc enters the battle and fights Talbot. They engage in a fierce fight, but Talbot manages to wound Joan. However, she is not deterred and continues to fight. Talbot is wounded by another French soldier and falls to the ground. John tries to save his father but is also wounded and captured by the French. Talbot, now alone, fights bravely but is eventually surrounded by the French soldiers. He is captured and brought before Joan of Arc. She taunts him and orders him to surrender to the French king. Talbot refuses and is taken away to be executed. The scene ends with the French celebrating their victory and Talbot's defeat. The English mourn the loss of their brave commander and vow to avenge his death.
Alarum: excursions. Enter TALBOT led by a Servant
Enter Soldiers, with the body of JOHN TALBOT
Dies
Enter CHARLES, ALENCON, BURGUNDY, BASTARD OF ORLEANS, JOAN LA PUCELLE, and forces
Enter Sir William LUCY, attended; Herald of the French preceding
Exeunt
Act V
Act 5 of Henry VI, Part 1 begins with the Yorkists and Lancastrians preparing for battle. The Earl of Warwick leads the Yorkist army and the Duke of Somerset leads the Lancastrian army. The two sides meet on the field of battle and the fighting begins. The Duke of Somerset is killed by the Yorkists and the Lancastrians are forced to retreat.
Meanwhile, Joan of Arc is captured by the Duke of York and his soldiers. She is put on trial for heresy and witchcraft. Joan denies the charges against her but is found guilty and sentenced to death. She is burned at the stake.
After the battle, the Duke of York meets with the captured King Henry VI. The Duke of York claims that he is the rightful heir to the throne and demands that King Henry VI abdicate. King Henry VI refuses and a fight breaks out between the two men. The Duke of York kills King Henry VI and declares himself King of England.
The play ends with the Duke of York's victory and the beginning of the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars between the House of York and the House of Lancaster for control of the English throne.
SCENE I. London. The palace.
The scene opens with the Earl of Warwick and the Duke of York discussing their plans to overthrow King Henry VI. They are joined by Richard Plantagenet, the Duke of York's son, who reveals that he has already started gathering soldiers to fight for their cause. Warwick and York are pleased with Richard's dedication to the cause and discuss the importance of having strong allies. As they speak, they are interrupted by Lord Clifford and his men, who have come to challenge them. A battle ensues, with both sides fighting fiercely. Richard Plantagenet proves himself to be a skilled warrior and manages to kill Lord Clifford in the heat of battle. Warwick and York are impressed with Richard's bravery and skill, and the three of them continue to fight together against Clifford's men. Despite their efforts, however, the battle takes a turn for the worse when reinforcements arrive to support Clifford's army. Warwick and York are forced to retreat, with Richard Plantagenet covering their escape. In the end, the Duke of York is grateful to his son for his bravery and loyalty, and they all vow to continue their fight to overthrow King Henry VI.
Sennet. Enter KING HENRY VI, GLOUCESTER, and EXETER
Enter CARDINAL OF WINCHESTER in Cardinal's habit, a Legate and two Ambassadors
Exeunt all but CARDINAL OF WINCHESTER and Legate
Exeunt
SCENE II. France. Plains in Anjou.
In Scene 2 of Act 5, a battle rages on between the English and French armies. The English forces are led by Talbot, who is a skilled and experienced military commander. The French forces, on the other hand, are led by Charles, the Dauphin of France. The battle is intense, with both sides suffering heavy losses. Talbot and his son are fighting bravely, but they are outnumbered and outmatched by the French forces. Despite their efforts, they are captured by the French soldiers. As Talbot is taken prisoner, he delivers a powerful speech, expressing his loyalty to England and his determination to continue fighting. He tells the French soldiers that they may have won this battle, but they have not won the war. He also warns them that they will face the wrath of England, and that their victory will be short-lived. The scene ends with Talbot being taken away as a prisoner of war, while his son is left behind to face the French forces alone. The audience is left wondering what will become of Talbot and his son, and whether England will be able to overcome this setback and emerge victorious in the war.
Enter CHARLES, BURGUNDY, ALENCON, BASTARD OF ORLEANS, REIGNIER, JOAN LA PUCELLE, and forces
Enter Scout
Exeunt
SCENE III. Before Angiers.
Scene 3 of Act 5 takes place in a battlefield where the English and French armies are fighting. The English army, led by Talbot, is outnumbered and struggling to keep up with the French forces. Talbot orders his soldiers to retreat to a nearby town, but they are pursued by the French soldiers. As the English soldiers flee, Talbot becomes separated from his son, John, and his ally, Lord Fastolfe. Talbot fights bravely against the French soldiers, but he is eventually captured by the French commander, the Countess of Auvergne. The Countess of Auvergne is impressed by Talbot's courage and asks him to surrender his sword. Talbot refuses, and she offers to make a deal with him. She promises to release him if he agrees to come to her castle and let her keep his sword as a trophy. Talbot reluctantly agrees, and the Countess releases him. As Talbot walks away, he realizes that he has been tricked. The Countess has set a trap for him, and he is ambushed by French soldiers. Talbot fights valiantly, but he is eventually killed. John and Fastolfe arrive too late to save Talbot, but they vow revenge against the French army. The scene ends with John lamenting the loss of his father and vowing to avenge his death.
Alarum. Excursions. Enter JOAN LA PUCELLE
Exit
Excursions. Re-enter JOAN LA PUCELLE fighting hand to hand with YORK JOAN LA PUCELLE is taken. The French fly
Exeunt
Alarum. Enter SUFFOLK with MARGARET in his hand
Exit from the walls
Trumpets sound. Enter REIGNIER, below
Going
Kisses her
Exeunt REIGNIER and MARGARET
Exit
SCENE IV. Camp of the YORK in Anjou.
Scene 4 of Act 5 takes place on a battlefield where the armies of England and France are preparing to fight. The English army is led by the Duke of York, while the French army is led by the Countess of Auvergne. The Duke of York is confident in his army's abilities and boasts about their strength. The Countess of Auvergne, on the other hand, is wary of the English army and expresses her doubts to her husband. As the battle begins, the Duke of York and his army quickly gain the upper hand. However, the Countess of Auvergne has a trick up her sleeve. She has secretly instructed her men to capture the Duke of York and bring him to her. The Duke of York is eventually captured and brought to the Countess of Auvergne. She taunts him and accuses him of causing the deaths of her father and brother. The Duke of York tries to reason with her, but she is determined to have her revenge. Just as it seems that the Duke of York is doomed, a messenger arrives with news that the English army has won the battle. The Countess of Auvergne is shocked and releases the Duke of York, who is grateful for his unexpected rescue. The scene ends with the Duke of York and his army victorious, while the Countess of Auvergne is left to contemplate her actions.
Enter YORK, WARWICK, and others
Enter JOAN LA PUCELLE, guarded, and a Shepherd
Exit
Exit, guarded
Enter CARDINAL OF WINCHESTER, attended
Enter CHARLES, ALENCON, BASTARD OF ORLEANS, REIGNIER, and others
Exeunt
SCENE V. London. The palace.
In Scene 5 of Act 5, two armies face off against each other on the battlefield. The Earl of Suffolk is leading one side, and Lord Talbot is leading the other. Suffolk and Talbot exchange insults and threats, but eventually, Talbot challenges Suffolk to a one-on-one fight. Suffolk accepts, and they begin to fight. During the fight, Suffolk is wounded and calls for help. His men come to his aid, and Talbot is captured and taken prisoner. However, Talbot's son John arrives on the scene and rallies the troops. They launch a surprise attack and succeed in freeing Talbot. The battle continues until the end of the scene, with neither side gaining a clear advantage.
Enter SUFFOLK in conference with KING HENRY VI, GLOUCESTER and EXETER
Exit
Exeunt GLOUCESTER and EXETER
Exit