King Henry IV Part 1 by William Shakespeare (The Arden Shakespeare, Edited by David Scott Kastan)

Shakespeare's Greatest History Play — Rebellion, Honor & the Birth of Prince Hal

A kingdom divided. A prince who prefers taverns to thrones. A rebel army marching on England. King Henry IV, Part 1 is Shakespeare's most dramatically rich history play — a masterwork that gives us the incomparable Sir John Falstaff and the young Prince Hal on his journey toward greatness.

This prestigious Arden Shakespeare edition, edited by the distinguished scholar David Scott Kastan, is the definitive academic text — the gold standard for university study and serious Shakespeare scholarship.

• Authoritative Arden text with extensive commentary by David Scott Kastan
• In-depth introduction covering sources, historical context, and critical reception
• Detailed notes illuminating every scene, speech, and historical reference
• The benchmark edition for students, scholars, and theatre professionals

Falstaff alone is worth the price of admission — one of the greatest comic creations in all of literature. But Henry IV Part 1 is also a profound meditation on power, responsibility, and what it means to grow up. Essential Shakespeare.

📖 Who It's For: Literature and history students, Shakespeare scholars, theatre lovers, and anyone who wants the deepest possible engagement with the text.