Defining
the word redemption requires many different scenarios and circumstances. There
is no right or wrong way to redeem oneself. It truly depends on what the
objective of the person is. For Prince Hal, in King Henry IV Part 1, he strives to win the trust of his father
again after causing great disappointment. But when faced against the
overambitious Hotspur, it’s hard to determine whose cause is more legitimate.
When
King Henry IV confronts Prince Hal of his exploits, Hal defends himself by
saying “I will redeem all this on Percy’s head.” (III.2) Before he even meets
Hotspur, the King says, “Thou hast redeemed thy lost opinion,” (V.4) showing
that Hal has proved himself enough. However, this is not enough for Hal who
previously stated “And I will die a hundred thousand deaths/Ere break the
smallest parcel of this vow.” (III.2) He must kill Percy in order to not only
win the redemption of his father, but also himself.
For
Hotspur, he has remained valiant and determined throughout the entire play, but
his obsession with honor leads to his downfall. By killing Hal, Hotspur shall
redeem his honor.
The
two fight with Hal ending up victorious. Even in Percy’s last words, he
confesses how it is more painful to witness Hal receive the honor he lost than
death itself. “They wound my thoughts worse than thy sword in flesh.” (V.4)
This
leaves us wondering who was more worthy of their redemption? Of course Hal is
the hero of the story, but Hotspur’s nobility and resolute attitude are heroic
qualities as well. We understand that Hotspur needed to die in order to let Hal
shine. But if Percy were to come out victorious, would we feel the same
satisfaction?
This
brings us back to the word ‘redeem’ and how it satisfies many different
circumstances. Hal obviously has redeemed his father’s trust, while Hotspur
redeemed and solidified his honor as seen in his last words. The two both serve
as a catalyst to their own redemption even if only one could come out
victorious.
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