Chapter 15

Shakspeare. -- The Author's reluctance to test the Scenes of the Poet's Dramas by Matters of Fact. -- Necessity of so doing. -- Hotspur in Shakspeare the first to bear evidence to Henry's reckless Profligacy; -- The Hotspur of History the first who testifies to his Character for Valour, and Mercy, and Faithfulness in his Duties. -- Anachronisms of Shakspeare. -- Hotspur's Age. -- The Capture of Mortimer. -- Battle of Homildon. -- Field of Shrewsbury. -- Archbishop Scrope's Death. Page 337