KING HENRY V: What's he that wishes so?
My cousin Westmoreland? No, my fair cousin:
If we are mark'd to die, we are enow
To do our country loss; and if to live,
The fewer men, the greater share of honour.
St. Crispin's Day Speech — Henry V
On the eve of the Battle of Agincourt, King Henry rallies his exhausted and outnumbered troops with a powerful oration on honor and brotherhood. He rejects the need for more reinforcements, asserting that the fewer the men, the greater the share of glory for those who fight.
Format: Monologue · Genre: Historical Drama · Source: Henry V · Author: William Shakespeare · Characters: King Henry V
About This Scene
This iconic monologue from Henry V captures King Henry's powerful address to his beleaguered troops on the eve of the Battle of Agincourt. Faced with overwhelming odds, he delivers a stirring oration designed to inspire courage, solidify their camaraderie, and transform impending defeat into a glorious opportunity. The speech masterfully manipulates themes of honor, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of those who fight for a just cause.
Character Analysis
King Henry V is presented here as a formidable yet inspiring leader who understands the psychology of his men. He is deeply committed to his cause, displaying both defiance against the odds and a profound sense of responsibility for his soldiers. His primary objective is to instill unwavering loyalty and a shared sense of purpose, ensuring his outnumbered army will fight with the strength of a united brotherhood.
Why This Works for Auditions
This monologue is a superb choice for auditions due to its dramatic arc and demonstration of a wide emotional range within a classical framework. It allows an actor to showcase powerful presence, exceptional vocal control, and the ability to articulate complex classical text with clarity and genuine feeling. The inherent stakes of the scene immediately draw an audience in, providing a strong platform for a memorable performance.
Best Suited For
This piece is ideally suited for male actors in the young adult to adult age range (20s-40s) who can authentically embody a commanding and inspirational figure. It is particularly effective for those being considered for leading man roles, authority figures, or military types, and for actors who excel at portraying intense conviction. This excerpt is perfect for drama school auditions, agent showcases, or competitions where a impactful classical statement is required.
Performance Tips
When approaching this monologue, focus on Henry's strategic use of rhetoric and how he builds his argument from initial rejection of more men to the grand vision of "a band of brothers." Pay close attention to the shifting tone, moving from a defiant dismissal of fear to a soaring articulation of future glory. Emphasize the connection Henry seeks to forge with his men, even though they are not physically present in the audition room, by imagining their weary faces and addressing their unspoken anxieties. Articulating the text with precision and understanding the Elizabethan imagery will be crucial for conveying its full power.