Consider how Shakespeare creates dramatic impact in this extract. Focus closely on the literary and linguistic techniques used.
Act 5 scene 3 lines 256-326
The final scene in the play offers the audience closure, and could be seen as the climax to events. The extract begins with death already a clear undertone to proceedings; with Cordelia being dead in Lear's arms. Shakespeare creates an impact through the use of the characters themselves, the action that occurs in the extract, the situation that unfolds and the tension built up during these situations.
The extract begins with Lear drawing attention upon himself with the use of repetition and exclamatives 'Howl, howl, howl, howl!' this gives an immediate impact and tension with regards to what is to follow. The words are particularly interesting as they not only express Lear's anguish, but also have an imperative feel to them, especially with the exclamation giving the impression of a command. This leaves the audience questioning whether Lear has really developed and changed at all during the duration of the play. This can be explored further with Lear's repeated use of the first person singular 'I', which shows yet again that it is the way in which problems affect him rather than all the characters as a whole. It is particularly poignant when Lear first says 'you murderers' and later 'who are you?' to Kent. The lack of recognition of Kent, the man who has served him so loyally would stir up emotion in the audience. Aswell as denouncing Kent as a murderer along with everyone else in Lear's presence. These factors combined create strong emotions adding to the catharsis felt and plant a fear for what more there is to come.
