#1h6

[socialshakespeare]

Reasons to read Henry VI part I:

The War of the Roses gets its start in an actual rose garden

Political battles!

Actual battles!

"Can't we all just get along?" - Henry VI, presumably

Seriously, if you wished Henry V had more politics or Richard II had more war, this is the play for you

Introduction to Margaret of Anjou, one of the most badass women in Shakespeare, who plays a central role in parts II and III

Joan of Arc (aka Joan la Pucelle)

Except it's Elizabethan propaganda Joan of Arc, which means we get both a valuable insight into the attitudes of the time and also

Joan of Arc, Demon Summoner

[harry-leroy]

Today in History: Henry VI of England is crowned King of France on this day, December 16th, 1431

(for Histories Appreciation Week 2019 - Day 1: King’s Day) 

[helenasbertram]

SUFFOLK  I'll undertake to make thee Henry's queen,  To put a golden sceptre in thy hand  And set a precious crown upon thy head,  If thou wilt condescend to be my-- 

MARGARET  What? 

SUFFOLK His love.

[socialshakespeare]

(source)

Some useful character context here

Sign up by March 6th to read with us!

[socialshakespeare]

Read-through of Henry VI Part 1.

This form will be open until Friday, March 6 at 11:59pm EST.

It's the last day to sign up!

[socialshakespeare]

(source)

Politics and battle. What more could you ask for?

Sign up by August 8th to read with us!

[harry-leroy]

Tom Sturridge as Henry VI in The Hollow Crown: Henry VI Part I (2016)

(for Histories Appreciation Week 2019 - Day 1: King’s Day)

[socialshakespeare]

The history plays in a nutshell.

Henry VI part I has fifty-three speaking parts, y’all. Who do you want to read? Sign up here by August 8th!