| Shakespeare's history plays, 1 Henry IV and 2 Henry IV, include the fictional character of Falstaff. This study examines Falstaff's role in the plays, considers his comedic placement in historical events and his role's relation to English nationalism. The study shows Falstaff's unique ability to provide great entertainment while remaining a symbol of evil and immorality, creating a conundrum for audiences. Falstaff's unique role is analyzed including the background of his naming, his relation to the theme of counterfeiting in the plays, the significance of his physical size, and his relationship with the prince which wanes as the two parts of the play progress. Ultimately, Falstaff is a character, who according to Johnson, is to be "admired but not esteemed." This study analyzes to what degree Falstaff should be both admired and esteemed. |
