Enduring inspiration
It is the morning of the Battle of Agincourt, Oct. 25, 1415. King Henry V of England has spent the night visiting his soldiers, many of whom believe they will soon die at the hands of the French. When he returns to his tent, Henry’s nobles are waiting. They also despair of the battle to come and talk about the dangers they face. The English are outnumbered five to one. The French troops are fresh, whereas the English are exhausted after months of war. Worst of all, Henry’s army is far from home and can expect no reinforcements. The king realizes that his troops need something more than arms or numbers; they need inspiration. He speaks to his weary countrymen as they prepare to meet the enemy: We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; For he to-day that sheds his blood with me Shall be my brother; be he ne’er so vile, This...