Increasingly, criticism on Henry IV; Part One has shifted from an emphasis on character studies and the   historical sources from which Shakespeare drew to define his characters and plot to an emphasis on the language and structure of the play. The debate over the exact relationship between the two parts of Henry IV has intensified during the twentieth century as well, although an understanding of the conjectures on this topic is not necessary to understand and enjoy either play. Henry IV, Part One is considered to be one of the more controversial and popular of Shakespeare's histories, partly due to the political and moral implications as well as to the fascinating nature of the characters struggling for power in the play. It is enjoyed by many due to the comic relie provided by Falstaff. Additionally, many audiences and readers can relate to the situation Hal and his...