This short activity can be used to introduce the idea that Henry V is rooted in historical fact. It also provides an opportunity for students to understand the events of the play through their own contemporary lens. This task can be used as a jumping-off point for a discussion about why Shakespeare might have chosen to represent Henry V and the battle of Agincourt in a play. What was so important about this period of history? Why was the Battle of Agincourt such a significant victory for the English?
Navigate to the map of Henry’s journey in the Geography section linked here. Using the “measure distances and areas” tool, measure the distance of the journey that Henry’s army took from Harfleur to Agincourt (make sure you measure the journey as it is marked out on the map, rather than the direct distance between the two locations.)
Open Google Maps and find two points on a map of Australia that are roughly the same distance from each other as the journey that Henry’s army took from Harfleur to Agincourt. How long would this journey take by foot?
Henry’s army covered this distance over a period of roughly two-and-a-half weeks, carrying armour, weapons, and provisions. Many of them were suffering from dysentery. Once they arrived at Agincourt, they engaged in a battle with an army twice their size, who were well-rested and not suffering from widespread illness.
What would be the modern-day equivalent of this journey? Discuss your response as a class.
