This updated edition of Shakespeare’s The First Part of King Henry IV offers a unique theatrical perspective on the play’s origins and interpretation. The introduction highlights the play’s surprising, de-centred dramatic structure, challenging the common belief that it centers on Prince Hal’s education. Instead, it emphasizes the impact of civil war on various relationships. The unpredictable vitality of Falstaff is examined, alongside important themes of honour, friendship, festivity, and reformation.

This audiobook features extensive lexical glosses to clarify obscure, ambiguous, or archaic meanings, making the rich wordplay accessible. The notes include a thorough commentary on Shakespeare’s adaptation of his sources, particularly Holinshed’s Chronicles, and suggest alternative stagings. It also contains a new introductory section by Katharine A. Craik, offering insights into recent stage, film, and critical interpretations, along with an updated reading list.