How is the portrayal of manipulation presented. Andre Ameli 11th Grade

Manipulation is an indirect mechanism utilized to influence an individual's thoughts or beliefs. The portrayal of manipulation is not necessarily explicit but through meaningful speeches and conversations. This can be viewed from a combination of language, form and conventions, which unearth specific values or attitudes. William Shakespeare explores this idea; a critical playwright during the English Renaissance. The Shakespearean History, 'King Henry V' (1599) focuses on the English's waging war with France - a result of King Henry's claim to France's throne as Shakespeare experienced numerous controversial events (e.g. the Nine Years War). When composing his plays, he was "heavily manipulated not only by the political climate, culture, ideals, and restrictions of his time but he also sought to manipulate those aspects of his society" (Morton, 2017). To examine this idea, Shakespeare does not shy away from employing Machiavellian natured characters like Canterbury and Ely to influence Henry V, exploiting commoners and soldiers through critical moments such as the Battle of Agincourt, and persuading Katherine- daughter of Charles VI to marry him.

In 'King Henry V,' Shakespeare portrays manipulation, with Machiavellian natured...