In this paper for this class Reading of Shakespeare we are to write about the character Sir John Falstaff, from the play Henry the IV part I ; which is probably one his most read history plays that he wrote. In my opinion it has more "flavor" than any of the others that we have read. .
The character Falstaff, is one that you can't help but like, even though he is a bit strange, but then again this is Shakespeare. Falstaff plays the one of comedy in this very serious play. He is a very funny, self centered, older fat manipulative man, who is really a knight for King Henry, even though he isn't of knight quality. Falstaff spends much of his time drinking at the local bar and thinking up plans to robbery just for the fun of it. One normally thinks of a knight as man who guards the kingdom, while this character in every since of the word is just out to have a good time. Falstaff doesn't think much of honor, instead he mocks it. He plans a robbery and succeeds with it, but then his friends turn around and rob him of the money, which is very embarrassing for Falstaff. Even though Falstaff is pretty much the scum in this play, you can't help to like him and root for him. He has no scents of morals or honor, but he does have a great love for life. Falstaff also has a great deal of respect and regard to Prince Harry, who he does consider a true friend. .
Falstaff is one who doesn't believe in dieing for his country, as he said "what good is a dead hero". Falstaff even fakes his own death to avoid being killed by his enemy. He even goes so far as to stab hotspur and claim that he killed him, when in fact he just happened to stumble upon his body on the battlefield.
Falstaff is interested in few things, mainly food and beer. He has no real desire for the need of a woman and in fact avoids them at most costs. There are women who support him, but he justs cheats and decieves them. Falstaff is very loyal to the Prince and is also bragging about how his relationship with the Prince.
