King Lear

Discuss a significant sequence from King Lear with close reference to language and staging

Act One Scene One

In the opening scene of the play the reader is immediately shown that Lear is beginning to make mistakes that will eventually ensure his downfall. In this scene it is obvious that Lear holds the power, shown in the manner in which he addresses the other characters in the scene. He gives orders and makes decisions.

The play begins with Lear announcing his intention to abdicate from the throne of England and divide his kingdom between his three daughters as a form of reward in exchange for their declaration of love for him.

“Tell me my daughters
(Since now we will invest us both of rule, Interest of territory, cares of state)
Which of you shall we say doth love us most?
That we our largest bounty may extend
Where nature doth with merit challenge”

Lear is used to the flattery that comes with being king and he fails to recognize the hypocrisy of Gonerill a...