Falstaff and Friendship

Falstaff and Friendship

In 1 Henry IV, Falstaff is one of the more complex characters as he provides a source of comedy in the historical play and keeps a prominent role in Prince Harry’s life despite his social status.   Without Falstaff, the play would lack humor and the warmth of friendship.   Therefore, it is apparent that Falstaff adds to the subplot, mentally and emotionally, that takes place as Hal moves closer to living up to the expectations of his breeding.
When first encountered, Falstaff asks Hal for the time.   With criticism of Falstaff’s nature as fat, lazy, selfish, and lustful, Hal responds, “Thou art so fat-witted, with drinking of old sack, and unbuttoning thee after supper, and sleeping upon benches after noon…” (1.2.2-4).   He continues, “Unless hours were cups of sack, and minutes capons, and clocks the tongues of bawds, and dials the signs of leaping-houses, and the blessed sun himself a fair hot wench in flame-colored taffeta, I see no reason why thou shouldst be so superfluous to demand the time of the day” (1.2.6-12).   Such a caricature of Falstaff early in the play allows for redemption him later on and adds comic flair to the revelation of his true feelings of loyalty and respect for Hal and their friendship.   He parallels Hal’s evolving role when he is first viewed as this slovenly, old scoundrel but later counteracts such behavior by vying for Hal’s continued comradery.
In Falstaff’s retort, he makes Hal out to be the corruptor of his good character and claims that he will change his ways.   Such accusation mirrors the views of Hal and the King on the topic of Falstaff’s effect on Hal’s character: that one is the cause of the other’s poor behavior. Such brash and blunt exchanges between these two characters sheds light on the nature of their friendship and the comfort level at which they belittle one another’s stature.   Several lines later, the fluctuation of Falstaff’s disposition becomes apparent as he reverts back to his...