Genealogy And Notions Of Racial Whiteness In Shakespeare's Plays

In the second tetralogy of Shakespeare's plays, Wagner argues that genealogy and notions of Englishness construct and reinforce the concept of racial whiteness. By examining the portrayal of genealogy in the plays, the author shows how Shakespeare uses it to establish natural orders and justify the present through immutable narratives of racialized history (123). This construction of birth orders and racial identity in the Henriad, which are both fixed and mutable, is used to typify how whiteness becomes racialized within the plays (124). Furthermore, Wagner argues that the Henriad persists in breaking down and re-establishing borders of identity, signaling its investment in racial whiteness and its capacity to dissolve other social differences

The other nobles perceive him as a weak and ineffective king, and he is eventually deposed, but he cunningly utilizes his genealogical lineage to legitimize his rule. Richard II claims that his authority is derived from divine right, asserting that he is the “scourge of God” and “the lord's anointed” (Act III, Scene 2), thereby positioning himself as a legitimate and rightful ruler. He continually refers to his ancestry, tracing his lineage to Edward III. Richard II also used his regal attire and pompous demeanor to project an image of authority and legitimacy, despite his poor leadership and questionable

Instead, he portrays himself as a pious and virtuous king, emphasizing his role as a father figure to the nation and the realm's protector. King Henry IV also seeks to secure his legacy by grooming his son, Prince Hal, to be a worthy successor, carefully crafting a narrative highlighting Prince Hal's legitimate lineage and royal heritage.
Prince Hal, in turn, also manipulates genealogical narratives to claim his legitimacy as the future king. He initially associates himself with the lower class, especially with Falstaff, to distance himself from the expectations of royalty and indulge in youthful exploits. However, as he matures and prepares to ascend to the throne as Henry V, Prince Hal transforms and skillfully constructs a narrative that emphasizes his rightful claim to the throne and his noble heritage.
Furthermore, Hotspur also manipulates genealogical narratives to assert his legitimacy. Hotspur claims that he has been slighted and marginalized despite his noble birth. He constructs a narrative highlighting his valor in battle and his noble lineage, using his genealogical heritage to challenge King Henry IV's legitimacy and rally support for his