King Lear - Act 1

KING LEAR – ACT 1

The first act in King Lear is particularly significant in the play as it introduces the central characters, relationships and themes explored. Specifically, in Act 1, we are introduced to King Lear and his family, the Gloucester parallel plot, and themes of nature, appearance versus reality, love and power.

The opening scene is very important for establishing Lear’s character and relationship with his daughters. In the very beginning, we find out from Kent and Gloucester’s conversation that Lear has already divided the kingdom, and yet he continues to hold the ‘love contest’ between his three daughters. His actions portray Lear’s materialistic values, great pride and love of flattery. Lear’s foolishness is revealed when he accepts Gonerill and Regan’s exaggerated declarations of love, yet rejects his youngest daughter’s speech: “I love your majesty according to my bond, no more nor less”. By refusing to participate in the game, and instead ...