YMMV / Henry IV, Part 2

• Alternate Character Interpretation:
  • Much like part one, how much is Falstaff a Jerkass and how much a Jerkass Woobie? Some interpretations see Falstaff as a lovable clown with some faults, making his rejection by Hal devastating. In contrast other interpretations Falstaff is an utter parasitic grifter that is only mildly pathetic because he is such an Obvious Villain and is so ineffectual in his villainy that he is easily dismissed. Yet, Hal's rejection in this light is Laser-Guided Karma as everything catches up to Falstaff.
  • How sympathetic is Hal? How much is his transformation sincere? Is it actually as intentional as he professes to the audience, or just an excuse and rationalization for wasting his time fooling around before resigning himself to kinghood? Is it simply part of his long set plan, or did he truly care for Falstaff but felt obliged to reject him for the sake of his duty as King?
  • Prince John of Lancaster; is he The Dutiful Son Guile Hero who did what had to be done to prevent a costly civil war, or is he an Opportunistic Bastard who violates Sacred Hospitality?