How does the character of King Lear Change throughout the play 'King Lear'

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How does the character of King Lear

Change throughout the play ‘King Lear’

The play King Lear in many ways fits in with the Jacobean ideals.  It portrays the idea of society being thrown into chaos, by a break down of the hierarchy that was believed to have so much power over the state of the world.  In the hierarchy, God came first, then the King, then the Bishops, then the aristocracy, then everyone else.  It may have been believed that once Lear divided up the kingdom, he, having the divine right of Kingship but not being recognised as having it, caused society to be disrupted, and the world and weather to turn to chaos.  This is mirrored in how the elements and his family’s condition change.  For it’s time ‘King Lear’ must have seemed quite a radical play, as it deals openly with the disruption of society, and the extent that some people will go to for power.  It also shows the King, the person nearest to God as having so many faults and being complacent (“ Lear: … crawl unburdened towards death… “) In his duties, which must have been quite a new thing for the audience.

 

Lear does have many faults and is a difficult and complex character.  His life is turned completely upside down because of his own blindness and irresponsibility, and he emerges from his torment a completely changed person.  

To begin with we find it very difficult to sympathise with Lear because of his egotism, and ridiculous behaviour.  His childish love of flattery, and foolish pride are his downfall, and make him easy to manipulate.

“ Goneril: Sir I love you more then word can

                               Wield the matter, Dearer then eyesight

                              Space and liberty.”

 

These wants of flattery and open vows of love suggest that he is insecure and likes to have his ego boosted.  He obviously does not know his daughter’s natures very well, suggesting that he is a poor father and has very false values.  In allowing himself to be taken advantage of it shows his inability to see things for what they really are.  He places a lot of importance on the face value, and appearance of things, which is in a way ironic, as he could not be more wrong.

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Lear’s outright rage at Cordelia’s obstinate ‘Nothing’ (showing inadequacy of speech, which is later evident in Lear) drives him to act rashly and without judgement as he disowns her without a moments thought, thinking only of his damaged pride and ego.  He does not stop for a moment to reflect or think of other ways to resolve problems

“Kent: I’ll tell thee thou dost evil

                                       Lear: here me recreant

                    ...

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