Ethos In King Henry

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In William Shakespeare's play “Henry V”, King Henry prepares his troops for battle with a passionate speech about fighting, honor, and kinship. King Henry uses ethos to persuade his men to fight the French, although they are outnumbered of men in the battle. Henry’s speech is effective because he has strong ethos and pathos. Henry notes that his troops feel overwhelmed and unprepared for the battle against the French. He seizes the moment to inspire his men and prepare them. First, one should focus on the language and Henry’s ethos. Henry tries to show his men of what will become of them after the battle. This works on every soldier’s mind in war and the battle itself. But, King Henry, tries to show his men what a honor it is to fight for …show more content…
Sometimes in a soft voice, even tenderly at times; while at other moments he speaks loudly and strongly to bring out the words for what is important. His timing was perfect. His men felt dejected and overwhelmed in the wake of the battle. The king used ethos in his speech in order to give out the possibilities of the war. He wants his men to beat the odds, so he tells them that they are capable of beating the French. One can clearly see the effectiveness of his speech. His men gather, cheer, and fight against the odds of losing to the French. The king makes it clear that his men are not obligated to stay and fight. Henry gives his men the opportunity to leave the war with money that shall be given by King Henry along their journey and live another day. No one deserts the small army. Thus, to choose to stay and risk their own lives to fight. King Henry’s speech is also effective visually. The king is moving about, he is dressed handsomely in England colors, even in a battle. He is not on a horse like higher ranks usually are, but he among his men on foot. Henry moves to a higher point where all of his men can see him and listen to him. His emotions are clear throughout the speech. Or pathos. There are sometimes he is happy to be among his men, other times where he seems to be hopeful, etc. It can be seen or heard at every moment throughout his speech. He never once shows doubt, fear, anger, nor sadness. King Henry only displays a positive