Somewhat contradictory views of Henry V are held within contemporary and near-contemporary accounts. Some said Henry was a pious, prudent and likeable prince who was concerned with the welfare of his people, others painted him as a callous, single-minded and reckless man who shed blood both at home and in France. Keith Dockray's controversial biography begins by assessing 15th-century sources from England and France before looking at Shakespeare's Henry and the ways in which 20th-century historians portrayed him. Henry's life and career form the second part of the book which concludes with a survey of his personality, achievements and failures as well as his legacy.