In the aftermath of the rebellion against King Henry IV, England remains in a state of uncertainty and unrest. The king's health is failing, and his son, Prince Hal, must navigate the complexities of his impending kingship. Meanwhile, the roguish Sir John Falstaff continues his misadventures, now embroiled in schemes to swindle money and avoid responsibility. Shakespeare's Henry IV, part 2 has secured its place as a classic of English literature and theatre since its inception in the late 16th century. It is part of Shakespeare's historical tetralogy, sometimes called the Henriad, depicting the rise of English kings. WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE [1564-1616], born in Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire, England, is known as the greatest playwright of all time, with his name attached to a long line of immortal plays, including Othello, Romeo & Juliet, Hamlet, King Lear, and Macbeth.