Henry IV part 2 continues the story of the complex relationship between the careworn Henry IV and his wayward son, Prince Hal. It examines the nature of kingship, a recurring Shakespearian theme, and the gradual acceptance of responsibility by the young prince. But the comic element plays a major part in the drama; Falstaff and his riotous companions offset the seriousness of the historical elements of the play, and introduce another layer of the multifaceted society in England'
The text of this edition is taken from the Cambridge University Press New Shakespeare, edited by Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch and John Dover Wilson.