Netflix’s “The King,” starring Timothée Chalamet as Henry V, offers a visually stunning and emotionally compelling portrayal of a pivotal period in English history, but viewers should approach it as a work of dramatic interpretation rather than a strict historical documentary. While the film draws inspiration from Shakespeare’s Henriad plays and historical records, significant liberties have been taken for narrative coherence and dramatic effect, resulting in a mix of accurate depictions and fictional embellishments.
The Historical Core of “The King”
“The King” is loosely based on the life of Henry V, an English monarch who reigned from 1413 to 1422. The film accurately depicts certain key events, such as Henry’s initial reluctance to embrace the throne, his subsequent ambition, and the famous Battle of Agincourt in 1415. Furthermore, the portrayal of the political climate in Europe during this period, including the strained relationship between England and France, holds a degree of historical truth. However, it’s crucial to understand that the film condenses, alters, and invents events to create a more compelling story.
Where “The King” Deviates from History
The film’s narrative diverges significantly from historical accounts in several key areas. The characters, motivations, and relationships presented in “The King” are often dramatically enhanced or simplified for cinematic purposes. The role of certain historical figures is reimagined, and the sequence of events is rearranged to serve the film’s narrative arc. While inspired by documented facts, viewers should be aware of the changes made by the creators.
The Character of Henry V
While the film portrays Henry as a reluctant king who is forced to embrace his destiny, history suggests that Henry V was a strategic and ambitious ruler from the beginning of his reign. While the film presents Henry as initially disinterested in power, historical records depict Henry as a charismatic and intelligent ruler, actively involved in matters of state. His transformation in the film from a carefree prince to a war-hardened king is, in part, a romanticized narrative.
The Portrayal of the Dauphin
Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of the Dauphin of France is one of the film’s most memorable aspects, yet also one of its most historically inaccurate. The Dauphin is depicted as a foppish, arrogant, and somewhat incompetent figure. In reality, the Dauphin, also named Charles, was a significant political force who faced numerous challenges, including mental health issues and disputed legitimacy. While the Dauphin and the King of England did face each other on the battlefield in some way, he was not the man presented on the film and many believe this presentation bordered on insensitive.
The Role of Falstaff
While the character of Sir John Falstaff is based on Shakespearean literature, his role in “The King” as a wise and seasoned military advisor to Henry V is largely fictional. Historically, the real person Sir John Falstaff may have been based on died many years before the Battle of Agincourt, and while it is a classic trope of Shakespeare to have the prince who will be king pal around with ne’er-do-wells, it is not supported by evidence in the case of King Henry V. Falstaff, in the film, advises King Henry on how to battle in Agincourt.
The Agincourt Battle: Fact vs. Fiction
The film’s depiction of the Battle of Agincourt is visually impressive but also takes liberties with historical accuracy. While the film captures the muddy conditions and the overwhelming odds faced by the English army, the specifics of the battle, including the tactics employed and the motivations of the key players, are simplified and dramatized. The mud was, indeed, a major contributing factor to the English victory, and the longbowmen played a pivotal role, but the film compresses the scale and scope of the battle for dramatic effect.
FAQs About “The King”
Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify the historical accuracy of “The King”:
1. Was Henry V truly reluctant to become king?
While “The King” emphasizes Henry’s initial reluctance, historical accounts suggest he was a strategic and ambitious ruler from the start. His father’s poor health may have influenced how fast he took over the responsibilities of the kingdom, but the film takes liberties with that information to provide the audience with a hero’s journey.
2. How accurate is the portrayal of the Dauphin of France?
The Dauphin’s portrayal is highly stylized and exaggerated for dramatic effect. The historical Dauphin was a complex figure facing immense political pressure, rather than the caricatured figure depicted in the film.
3. Did Sir John Falstaff really advise Henry V?
No. While Falstaff is a beloved literary character, his presence in “The King” is primarily a fictional element borrowed from Shakespeare.
4. How accurate is the Battle of Agincourt depicted in the film?
The film captures the muddy conditions and the disparity in numbers but simplifies the battle tactics and scope. The film does present the devastating nature of English longbowmen at the battle, which is one of the accurate elements.
5. Did Henry V marry Catherine of Valois for love, as depicted in the film?
The film suggests a burgeoning romance. History indicates that the marriage was primarily a political alliance, although a genuine connection may have developed later. The film does not touch on the fact that King Henry V died only two years after marrying Queen Catherine, who remarried a Welsh courtier.
6. How much of “The King” is based on Shakespeare’s plays?
The film draws inspiration from Shakespeare’s Henriad plays, particularly “Henry IV, Parts 1 and 2” and “Henry V,” but it also incorporates elements from historical records.
7. What are the biggest historical inaccuracies in “The King”?
The characterization of the Dauphin, the role of Falstaff, and the portrayal of Henry’s initial motivations are among the most significant departures from historical accounts.
8. Was the Battle of Agincourt as muddy and chaotic as the film portrays?
Yes, the muddy conditions were a significant factor in the English victory. This is supported by historical accounts and archaeological evidence. The film did a fairly good job presenting this.
9. Did Henry V execute prisoners of war after the Battle of Agincourt?
The film depicts this event, and it is a controversial aspect of Henry V’s legacy. Historians disagree on the precise circumstances and justifications.
10. What was Henry V’s relationship with his father, King Henry IV?
The film suggests a strained relationship. Historical accounts suggest a complex relationship involving both respect and political tension.
11. How should viewers approach “The King” – as history or as entertainment?
Viewers should approach “The King” as a work of entertainment that is inspired by historical events but not necessarily a historically accurate depiction. The film is a compelling story in its own right, even though it is not the truth.
12. What are some reliable sources for learning more about Henry V and the Battle of Agincourt?
Scholarly biographies of Henry V, academic articles on the Battle of Agincourt, and primary source documents from the period (such as chronicles) offer more comprehensive and accurate information. The National Archives in the United Kingdom is a great resource.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Drama, Question the History
“The King” is a captivating cinematic experience, but it’s essential to remember that it prioritizes dramatic storytelling over strict historical accuracy. By understanding where the film deviates from historical accounts, viewers can appreciate its artistic merits while maintaining a critical perspective on its portrayal of historical events. The historical King Henry V was very different from the movie’s King Henry V. Enjoy the film for what it is: a visual spectacle that may or may not be true.