If you were ever to forget why the English and French have a natural enmity then William Shakespeare’s Henry V is perfect for a short, sharp reminder. The play takes us back to 1415 when the two nations were at war, culminating in the English trouncing the French during the Battle of Agincourt.

It is a fiercely patriotic piece. The French – and in particularly Lewis the Dauphin – are silly arrogant twerps in awe of the English and their “mettle”, while mocking them for eating so much beef and “killing fruit with their frowns”.

In contrast to the French lords and their fine wines, the English king and soldiers are shown as humble, brave warriors who overcome their enemy against all odds.

The Oxford Theatre Guild are staging a production of this historic epic in the grounds of Trinity College.

On the first night of their run, rain sent the audience – including this reviewer – home, but thankfully second time round the sun shone, making it a beautiful setting for the re-enactment of England’s glorious victory.

Alistair Nunn has the necessary power and gravitas to play the courageous and noble King Henry V. His stage presence and commanding voice make him compelling to watch.

James Silk is comic and entertaining as the foolish fop Lewis the Dauphin, who was actually responsible for triggering the war by sending Henry V tennis balls as a present.

At one point he had the second-night audience in fits of giggles with his delivery of the line “my horse is my mistress” while prancing about.

The Guild emphasises the wealth and sophistication of the French court by dressing the French characters in stylish and expensive-looking clothes.

The English characters, on the other hand, are seen in battle clothes or in brown, rag-like attire.

Of course, since this is a Shakespeare play, there is plenty of bawdy action, disputes and silliness, provided mainly by Pistol. Tim Younger gives a lively performance as this miscreant, who gets his comeuppance when he is forced to eat leeks by the Welsh soldier Fluellen (Adam Potterton).

There is a scene which those with a wish to practise their French would enjoy. Katherine, Princess of France (Charlotte Evans) is dressing and chatting to her maid in French.

She tries to learn English and so pronounces English words with a comic French accent. As tension before the battle builds, atmosphere is created by a soundtrack of horses and men marching. A band also plays music evocative of the period at appropriate intervals.

Henry V is playing in Trinity College gardens until Saturday,July 25, with an alternative indoor venue at the college if rain falls. For tickets telephone 01865 305305 (www.ticketsoxford.com).