Play description
ACT I
Scene 1. The Archbishop of Canterbury and the Bishop of Ely are anxious about a bill proposing to
confiscate ecclesiastical property. They are, however, optimistic that King Henry will oppose it. They
note that since the death of his father young Henry is a reformed character, no longer a rakish
debauchee, but a gracious king. Canterbury has promised Henry a contribution from the clergy if he
pursues the French crown, to which he has a claim through his great-great-grandmother, Isabella of
France.
Scene 2. Wishing to establish the justice of his claim, Henry asks the Archbishop to expound the Salic
Law which prohibits succession to the French throne through the female line. The Archbishop assures
Henry that he can press his claim “with right and conscience.” Ambassadors from the Dauphin are
admitted. They present Henry with a gift of tennis balls; angered, he warns them: “I am coming on/To
venge me as I may.”
