Which Shakespearean King Leads His Soldiers Into Battle With The Cry “God For Harry, England And St George”?

Shakespeare gives these words to the king in Act III of "Henry V," at the conclusion of a lengthy speech. Henry is addressing his men as they prepare to attack Harfleur (near Le Havre, in Normandy) which has been under siege for some time. The speech opens "Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more/ Or close the wall up with our English dead," and throughout its 33 lines it breathes patriotism and a demand for courage. In fact the speech is so powerful (the last lines in particular are well known to many British people) that it has even been used in management courses as an example of how to inspire and motivate your staff (though not necessarily in a military context.) It is suggested that managers should copy Henry's techniques of flattering his men, reminding them of their common purpose and hinting at the shame that will follow if they don't show courage.

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