King Lear

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Cordelia-in-the-Court-of-King-Lear-1873-Sir-John-Gilbert

Edwin_Austin_Abbey_King_Lear,_Act_I,_Scene_I_The_Metropolitan_Museum_of_Art

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Lear_and_Cordelia_(1849-54)

1577_printing_of_Holinshed's_Chronicles

Cordelia,_King_Lear,_Alexander_Johnston_(artist)

King Lear is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare. It depicts the gradual descent into madness of the title character, after he disposes of his kingdom by giving bequests to two of his three daughters based on their flattery, bringing tragic consequences for all. Derived from the legend of Leir of Britain, a mythological pre-Roman Celtic king, the play has been widely adapted and performed.

Plot

The play begins with King Lear deciding to divide his kingdom among his three daughters: Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia. He plans to give the largest share to the daughter who loves him most. Goneril and Regan, the elder daughters, deceitfully profess their love, while Cordelia, the youngest, speaks honestly and is disinherited. Lear's decision leads to his downfall as Goneril and Regan turn against him.

Lear descends into madness, wandering through a storm with his Fool. Meanwhile, the Duke of Gloucester is betrayed by his illegitimate son, Edmund, and blinded. Gloucester's legitimate son, Edgar, disguises himself as a mad beggar to escape his brother's treachery.

The play culminates in a battle between the French army, led by Cordelia, and the British forces. Cordelia is captured and executed, and Lear dies of grief. Goneril and Regan's rivalry leads to their mutual destruction, and Edgar eventually restores order.

Characters

• King Lear: The aging king of Britain who decides to divide his kingdom among his daughters.
• Goneril: Lear's ruthless eldest daughter.
• Regan: Lear's middle daughter, as ruthless as Goneril.
• Cordelia: Lear's youngest daughter, disinherited for her honesty.
• Edmund: The illegitimate son of Gloucester, who schemes to usurp his father's title.
• Edgar: Gloucester's legitimate son, who disguises himself as "Poor Tom."
• Gloucester: A nobleman loyal to King Lear, betrayed by Edmund.
• Kent: A nobleman loyal to King Lear, who disguises himself to continue serving the king.
• The Fool: Lear's court jester, who remains with Lear during his descent into madness.

Themes

King Lear explores themes of power, betrayal, and madness. The play examines the consequences of political decisions and the vulnerability of the human condition. The relationship between parents and children is central, highlighting the complexities of familial loyalty and ingratitude.

Performance History

King Lear was first performed in 1606 and has since been a staple of the theatrical repertoire. It has been adapted into numerous films, television productions, and literary works. Notable performances include those by Laurence Olivier, Ian McKellen, and Anthony Hopkins.

Related Pages

• William Shakespeare
• Tragedy
• Leir of Britain
• Shakespearean Fool
• Edmund (King Lear)
• Cordelia (King Lear)

Categories

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