How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line)
Quote #1
KING HENRY
Far be the thought of this from Henry's heart,
To make a shambles of the Parliament House!
Cousin of Exeter, frowns, words, and threats
Shall be the war that Henry means to use. (1.1.71-74)
York and his team and ready to duke it out, and so is Clifford. Henry, however, wants to fight using language, not weapons. He thinks it's a disgrace to use other weapons in parliament. He's also banking on the fact that he's the king, and thinks that should count for something in a war of words.
Quote #2
KING HENRY
I know not what to say; my title's weak.—
Tell me, may not a king adopt an heir? (1.1.138-139)
Whoops. Henry readily admits to us (in an aside) that he has been outsmarted. We can see that he has no real power, linguistic or otherwise.
Quote #3
KING HENRY
Have done with words, my lords, and hear me
speak.
QUEEN MARGARET
Defy them then, or else hold close thy lips.
KING HENRY
I prithee, give no limits to my tongue.
I am a king and privileged to speak. (2.2.119-123)
Margaret's never shy of telling her hubby what she thinks, even in a room full of nobles. She snaps at him because he can't command any authority with Edward and his crew. She points out that Henry has no power, because no one listens to him. Again, it's through language—or the inability to speak—that we understand who's got the power... and who doesn't.