King Lear Act 1 Scene 1 Analysis

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English Journal Entry King Lear I.I 138-180         Pride is perhaps the most recurring theme and character trait in literature dating back to Shakespearean era. Often, Shakespeare has shown the devastating effects of pride and its consequences for both the proud character and their associates. This particular passage is used by Shakespeare to emphasize the characterization of Kent as well as to develop Lear’s character using literary devices such as allusions and diction,  foreshadow future proceedings of the plot, and most prominently, through use of imagery, the reinforcement of themes including illusion versus reality and sight versus blindness.         Through his use of diction and specific allusions, Shakespeare, develops Kent’s and Lear’s character. The very first address by Kent to Lear established Kent as a loyal and faithful advisor of the king. Initiating his suggestion with the word ‘royal’ (line 138) reflects the esteem and status which Kent associates with his liege lord. Although within the context, it is clear that Lear has given his authority away to his sons-in-law, Kent still beholds Lear as a royalty and refers to him with the
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formality otherwise used only for the kings. The repetition of the words ‘as my’ in the subsequent three lines as well as ‘in my’ (line 141) all reflect the close relationship which Kent holds with Lear. This asserts not only his connection with Lear but also highlights the level of dedication shown by Kent as the lines ‘love’d as my father’, ‘as my master follow’d’,  and ‘as my great patron thought on in my prayers’ all show the obedient and dedicated nature of Kent’s character towards the former king. The level of intimacy between Kent and Lear as seen by ...

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