High impact Series
High Impact Shakespeare: Henry V: Set C: Retelling
What’s inside...
Part of Set C of the "High Impact Shakespeare" series, this retelling of "Henry V" is aimed at motivating reluctant readers. It is a Key Stage 3 English set play.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-18
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities make Henry V a good or not so good leader? Can you think of examples from the book?
How do the characters in the play show bravery or fear? Discuss any moments that stood out to you.
What are your thoughts on how Henry speaks to his soldiers compared to how he speaks with the nobles?
Henry V has many themes such as leadership, morality, and war. Which theme did you find most interesting and why?
If you were a character in Henry V, who would you be and how would you interact with King Henry?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their views by asking them how they feel about the characters’ decisions. Offer comparisons to modern-day leaders or situations to make the content more relatable. Discuss the historical context of the play and how leadership qualities might translate into today's world. Share your own interpretations of the play’s themes and ask your child if they agree or see things differently. This helps in developing critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Leadership
Explanation: Henry V showcases exemplary leadership, particularly during the Battle of Agincourt, where he inspires his troops with the famous St. Crispin's Day Speech.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking initiative in group projects at school or in extracurricular activities, learning to inspire and guide others towards a common goal.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: As the king, Henry has to make difficult decisions, understanding the weight of his role and the impact of his actions on his country and people.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of being responsible for their actions and thinking about how their decisions affect others around them.
Example Lesson: Valor
Explanation: The courage demonstrated by Henry and his men, despite being vastly outnumbered, highlights the virtue of valor.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be brave when facing their own challenges, whether it be standing up against bullying or tackling difficult tasks with determination.
Example Lesson: Unity
Explanation: Henry V emphasizes the importance of unity, rallying his soldiers to think of themselves as a band of brothers.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to value teamwork and to understand that achieving common goals often requires cooperation and mutual respect.