Writing and Rewriting Nationhood: "Henry V" and Political Appropriation of Shakespeare

Shakespeare’s Henry V is often regarded as a nationalistic play and has been appropriated for political spin propaganda to enhance the sense of national unity. Shakespeare captures emerging feeling Tudor era in Henry’s emphasis on history pride, but various parts text suggest more diverse complex figures king his subjects than war hero united nation. Such complexity, however, ignored appropriation. Laurence Olivier’s film adaptation during WWII glamorizes defines English nation courageous “band brothers” through its presentation shared story or victory. Kenneth Branagh’s 1989, other hand, ugliness it still romanticizes sacrifice country. In 2016, was made part Brexit discourse growing nationalism at time EU referendum. imagined victory that will bring back freedom sovereignty country once enjoyed, used represent greatness Britain. text, depicts against continent skeptical glorifying tone. The scenes are scattered with humorous dialogues critical comments multi-national captains army constantly odds one another. thus provides us wider view nationhood, resisting simplifying force politics.