Sir John Falstaff is a rare recurring figure in William Shakespeare’s plays — the larger-than-life character appeared in “Henry IV,” “Henry V,” and “The Merry Wives of Windsor.” Falstaff was predominantly used by the Bard as comic relief, displaying quick wit and a bawdy sense of humor. The eponymous adjective “Falstaffian” developed from this character, coming to describe someone with a hedonistic sensibility, jolly demeanor, and usually a rotund physique.