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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Prologue
Explanation and Analysis—The Ocean:
The ocean serves as a prominent motif throughout Henry V, highlighting the fact that Britain is an island that is separated from its neighbors by water. In the opening lines of the play, the Chorus asks the audience to imagine England and France as
two mighty monarchies,
Whose high uprearèd and abutting fronts
The perilous narrow ocean parts asunder.
Related Themes:
Act 2, Prologue
Explanation and Analysis—Clothing :
One notable motif throughout the play is clothing—in particular, the way that clothing reflects or disguises identity. At the onset of the war with France, the Chorus describes the mobilization of English society by first describing the changes of fashion:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Now all the youth of England are on fire,
And silken dalliance in the wardrobe lies;
Now thrive the armorers, and honor’s thought
Reigns solely in the breast of every man.
Related Themes:
Act 3, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—The Ocean:
The ocean serves as a prominent motif throughout Henry V, highlighting the fact that Britain is an island that is separated from its neighbors by water. In the opening lines of the play, the Chorus asks the audience to imagine England and France as
Unlock with LitCharts A+two mighty monarchies,
Whose high uprearèd and abutting fronts
The perilous narrow ocean parts asunder.
Related Themes:
Act 4, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Clothing :
One notable motif throughout the play is clothing—in particular, the way that clothing reflects or disguises identity. At the onset of the war with France, the Chorus describes the mobilization of English society by first describing the changes of fashion:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Now all the youth of England are on fire,
And silken dalliance in the wardrobe lies;
Now thrive the armorers, and honor’s thought
Reigns solely in the breast of every man.
Related Themes:
