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King Lear is a tragedy by William Shakespeare based on the mythological Leir of Britain. It depicts the downfall of a king who divides his kingdom among his daughters, and the tragic consequences of his actions.
Apr 21, 2016 · King Lear dramatizes the story of an aged king of ancient Britain, whose plan to divide his kingdom among his three daughters ends tragically. When he tests each by asking how much she loves him, the older daughters, Goneril and Regan, flatter him. The youngest, Cordelia, does not, and Lear disowns and banishes her.
Learn about King Lear, one of Shakespeare's most tragic and profound works, set in ancient Britain. Explore the plot, themes, characters, and quotes from the play, and access study tools and film adaptations.
King Lear intends to divide his kingdom among his three daughters, so that he can enjoy old age without the burdens of power. He has planned a ceremony in which each daughter will state how much she loves him, before an audience of nobles including Lear's long-trusted advisor, Kent, the Earl of Gloucester, and two suitors for his youngest daughter's hand, Burgundy and France.
Aug 10, 2024 · King Lear, tragedy in five acts by William Shakespeare, written in 1605–06 and published in a quarto edition in 1608, evidently based on Shakespeare’s unrevised working papers. The text of the First Folio of 1623 often differs markedly from the quarto text and seemingly represents a theatrical revision done by the author with some cuts designed for shortened performance.
- David Bevington
Learn about the plot, characters and themes of Shakespeare's tragedy King Lear, in which an old king divides his kingdom and goes mad. Find out how the play explores themes of love, betrayal, justice and fate.
Explore Shakespeare's tragedy of family, greed, and old age. Find the full text, essays, resources, and images related to King Lear.