Henry V

In this concise, accessible, and engaging biography, Pollard rejects the jingoistic approach to one of England's most renowned military heroes. Henry V enjoyed spectacular success against the French, coming tantalisingly close to conquering the vast country and imposing and English dynasty; this in a reign of just nine years, in only seven of which he was at war. Even before he died the heroic myth, later enshrined by Shakespeare, was being created. His victories have become the touchstone of English nationalism, English militarism and English imperialism. For good or ill, Henry V now signifies the one-time 'Greatness of England'. he was a military genius, yet his megalomania was not in the best interests of his kingdom, let alone the people of France who suffered at his hands. Behind the carefully constructed nationalist myth was a cold, calculating, ruthless ruler who, before his early death, was already becoming a tyrant.