This updated edition offers a strongly theatrical perspective around the origins of Shakespeare’s The First Part of King Henry IV and the history of its interpretation. The introduction clarifies the play’s surprising, de-centred dramatic structure, questioning the prominent assumption how the drama focuses on the education of Prince Hal. It phone calls attention to the effects of civil war upon a wide range of associations. Falstaff’s unstable vitality is certainly explored, together with important contemporary values of honour, companionship, festivity and reformation. Extensive lexical glosses of obscure, ambiguous or archaic meanings make the wealthy wordplay available. The notes also provide a thorough commentary on Shakespeare’s change of his sources (particularly Holinshed’s Chronicles) and recommend alternative stagings. This up to date edition contains a new introductory section by Katharine A. Craik, which details recent stage, film and essential interpretations, and an updated reading list.