King Lear by William Shakespeare

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About this eBook

Author Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616
Title King Lear
Summary "King Lear" by William Shakespeare is a tragic play believed to have been written in the early 17th century. The play explores themes of power, betrayal, and madness through the story of King Lear, who decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on who loves him most. This decision leads to his tragic downfall and the unraveling of familial bonds. The opening of "King Lear" introduces key characters such as King Lear, his daughters Gonerill, Regan, and Cordelia, along with loyal subjects like Kent and Gloucester. Lear's intent to divide his kingdom sets the stage for conflict, as he asks each daughter to declare her love for him. Gonerill and Regan flatter him with extravagant declarations, while Cordelia speaks less but more truthfully. Lear's anger at Cordelia’s perceived lack of affection leads to her disinheritance, establishing the initial rift that will drive the play’s tragic events. The tension escalates as Lear's inability to see his daughters' true natures and his own foolishness become apparent, foreshadowing the chaos to come. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class PR: Language and Literatures: English literature
Subject Tragedies
Subject Kings and rulers -- Succession -- Drama
Subject Fathers and daughters -- Drama
Subject Inheritance and succession -- Drama
Subject Lear, King (Legendary character) -- Drama
Subject Britons -- Drama
Subject Kings and rulers -- Drama
Subject Aging parents -- Drama
Category Text
EBook-No. 2266
Release Date
Most Recently Updated Apr 3, 2015
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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