Henry IV Part 2 Lesson Plan

Analyze how and why Hal feels like a hypocrite, as explained in his conversation with Poins in Act II, Scene 2. What seems to be his biggest obstacle to becoming king?

Hal feels like a hypocrite because he is currently saddened by his father's health, but has lived a dishonorable life that has brought his father shame. It is this psychological anguish that the play makes clear is the root cause of the King's ailments. This discussion is preceded by his admission that he still wants to drink beer, and he and Poins joke about the needs of the body and those of duty. This is his biggest obstacle: his struggle with sacrificing temporary pleasure in order to perform his...