king lear justice theme

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• Justice in King Lear

In William Shakespeare’s, King Lear­, the concept of justice is a theme that many characters struggle with. There is a prominent emphasis on the question of whether there is moral righteousness in the world which would demand that every crime committed must have an equally appropriate punishment.

However, is justice served when some characters crimes and punishments are in equilibrium, while other characters punishments far surpass their crimes? Justice can be served by the characters being given fair punishments, however, ultimately justice in King Lear is served the best when the punishment surpasses the crime because the knowledge and compassion that the character gains have an everlasting effect on their life and ultimately makes them a better person.

For characters such as Edmund, Cornwall, Regan and Goneril it can be accepted that justice has been served because their punishments completely coincide with their crime. Edmund, the son of Gloucester, commits many crimes throughout King Lear and repeatedly exhibits disloyalty to achieve his goals. Not only is Edmund the underlying reason as to why his brother Edgar is banished, he is also responsible for the death of Lear’s beloved daughter Cordelia.

Edmund’s selfish and destructive actions tear his family apart and result in the innocent murder of Cordelia.  Edmund dies after battling his disguised brother and after all the grief that he causes, his death is highly anticipated.  Edmund dies exactly how many feel he should; he inflicted pain on others and his death can be seen as an appropriate punishment.

Cornwall, who was the husband of Regan, is not a fundamental character however through his actions such as the gouging out of Gloucester’s eyes; he had a major impact on the play. Cornwall’s cruelty and disrespectfulness towards Gloucester is not just, and one of the servants stands up and voices how wrong this act is.

The action of the servant ultimately causes the death of Cornwall which supports the notion that justice is served because Cornwall’s cruelty and inhumanness result in the death he deserves. Regan and Goneril, Lear’s two eldest daughters, are selfish and malicious characters who take advantage of Lear’s vulnerability. Their spiteful ways begin when they lie about their love for their father so that they will inherit more land but when Lear needs them most they banish him from their home.

Once again justice prevails because Regan and Goneril’s death was a direct result of their conniving ways. Goneril poisons Regan out of jealousy and then Goneril stabs herself. Ultimately, all of these characters receive a punishment that is in line with their crime but they do not learn anything from their mistakes and therefore are unable to become better people.

Even though many of the characters in Shakespeare’s tragedy are horrible people who deserve their punishments, there are also characters such as Lear and Gloucester who did not deserve the extent of their punishments. Lear is introduced into the play as being a selfish man who values public displays of affection over honesty and he irrationally banishes Cordelia and Kent.

As a result of his actions, Lear is severely punished by being banished from his home, experiencing madness, and losing everyone that he loves. Lear’s punishment is very severe in comparison to other characters such as Regan and Goneril who commit worse crimes and then die without actually having to acknowledge their actions.

Lear does not feel he deserves his punishments and therefore says, “I am a man/ More sinned against than sinning” (III.ii.58-59). Lear not only endures severe punishments while alive, but his death can be seen as his final punishment. Gloucester is another example of a man whose greatest crime is favoring his non bastard son, Edgar. He is punished for this crime through the gouging out of his eyes. Gloucester’s punishment is not equal and appropriate to his crime.

He blames this unjustness on the gods, “As flies to wanton boys are we to the gods. / They kill us for their sport” (IV.i.36-37). Gloucester’s actions did not deserve the gouging out of his eyes and like Lear, Gloucester realizes this and he blames his punishments on the gods whom he believes can arbitrarily impact the outcomes of people’s lives. However even though in these situations the punishments were unfair the characters were forced to endure them to become better people and to make the natural order of the world better.

Justice is not always about doing the fair thing it is also about moral righteousness which is why justice is ultimately served in King Lear. Most characters in this play excluding Cornwall, Goneril, and Regan in some way become better people by suffering through their punishments. Edmund was remorseful on his death bed and even tried to save Cordelia which is proof that after being a witness to the chaos that unfolded he realizes his mistakes and tries to fix them.

Lear and Gloucester, on the other hand, suffer much more than other characters and even though their punishment surpasses their crime, justice is still served because they become moral and just people. Lear ultimately becomes a just person when he says, “Poor naked wretches, wheresoe’er you are,/ That bide the pelting of this pitiless storm,/ How shall your houseless heads and unfed sides,/ Your looped and windowed raggedness, defend you/ From seasons such as these? O, I have ta’en/ Too little care of this!”(III.iv.28-33). Lear would never realize the wrongs he committed as King if he had not experienced his major downfall from the very top of society, as a King, to the very bottom, as a homeless man. 

If Gloucester’s sight had not been taken from him it can be assumed that he would not realize the mistakes he made. However, he does eventually realize his mistakes and says, “I stumbled when I saw. Full oft’tis seen/ Our means secure us, and our mere defects/ Prove our commodities” (IV.i.19-22). These characters suffer through their punishments and even though they eventually die they die a better person unlike Cornwall, Goneril and Regan.

These three characters did not learn anything from their mistakes because their punishment was death. Although this is the greatest punishment of all, they did not have to work through their mistakes and therefore did not repent nor learn a single thing. Justice can be served by doing the fair thing but wouldn’t be accepting your sins and dying as a good and insightful person even if you had to endure more.

The natural order of the world is eventually re-established from fair to good by the end of King Lear.  This is done through the suffering and punishment that some of the characters endure. Although some characters have to endure more suffering than others, justice is ultimately served by all and for some the restoring of justice brings on a more significant impact on their lives.  In conclusion, justice did prevail in the end and through the service of justice some characters are able to die as good and insightful people.

Work Citied

Shakespeare, William. King Lear. Toronto: Thomson Nelson, 2007.

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Story Arcadia

Themes in “King Lear”: Power, Betrayal, Madness, Justice, and Tragedy

King Lear, one of William Shakespeare’s most renowned plays, holds a significant place in English literature. This tragic masterpiece explores the depths of human nature and the complexities of the human condition through its exploration of various themes. Understanding these themes is crucial to fully grasp the depth and messages conveyed by the play.

One of the central themes in “King Lear” is power and authority. The play begins with King Lear dividing his kingdom among his daughters, an act that sets off a chain of events leading to disastrous consequences. As the story unfolds, we witness how power corrupts characters like Goneril, Regan, and Edmund, revealing their true nature.

Betrayal and loyalty are also prominent themes in “King Lear.” The play showcases the heartbreaking betrayal between family members, particularly Lear’s daughters who betray their father’s trust for personal gain. However, amidst this treachery, characters like Kent and Edgar demonstrate unwavering loyalty.

Madness and sanity play a crucial role in the narrative as well. Lear’s descent into madness symbolizes the chaos and disorder that ensues when reason is abandoned. The Fool, through his apparent madness, provides wisdom and insight into the unfolding events.

Furthermore, “King Lear” delves into the theme of justice and injustice. The play reflects on human suffering and questions divine justice or its absence. The fate of characters serves as a commentary on moral order.

These themes contribute to the tragedy and moral complexity of “King Lear,” making it a timeless work that resonates with contemporary audiences. By understanding these themes, we can appreciate Shakespeare’s profound insights into human nature and society. Power and Betrayal in “King Lear”

Shakespeare’s “King Lear” is a renowned play in English literature, known for its complex characters and profound themes. Understanding the themes explored in the play is crucial to unraveling its depth and messages.

One of the central themes in “King Lear” is power and authority. The play begins with King Lear dividing his kingdom among his daughters, which sets off a chain of events leading to chaos and tragedy. This division of power exposes the corrupting influence it has on characters like Goneril, Regan, and Edmund. They manipulate and betray their loved ones to gain more power, ultimately leading to their downfall.

Betrayal and loyalty are also prominent themes in the play. Lear’s daughters betray him by falsely professing their love for him, causing him immense suffering. However, characters like Kent and Edgar demonstrate unwavering loyalty towards their king and family, even in the face of adversity.

These themes highlight the destructive nature of power and the importance of trust and loyalty within relationships. They showcase how betrayal can lead to tragic consequences while emphasizing the significance of remaining faithful.

By exploring these themes, Shakespeare delves into the complexities of human nature and morality. The play raises questions about justice and injustice, as well as the consequences of one’s actions. These universal themes continue to resonate with contemporary audiences, reminding us of the timeless relevance of “King Lear.”

In conclusion, understanding the themes of power, betrayal, madness, justice, and tragedy enriches our appreciation for Shakespeare’s masterpiece. These themes contribute to the play’s moral complexity and serve as a reflection on human nature that continues to captivate audiences today. Madness and Sanity in “King Lear”

In Shakespeare’s “King Lear,” the theme of madness and sanity plays a crucial role in unraveling the complexities of the characters and their actions. The protagonist, King Lear, descends into madness as he grapples with the consequences of his ill-fated decision to divide his kingdom among his daughters. This descent into madness serves as a symbolic representation of Lear’s loss of power, identity, and reason.

Furthermore, the Fool, a character who appears to be mad, provides wisdom through his seemingly nonsensical remarks. His role highlights the blurred line between sanity and madness and challenges the audience to question conventional notions of wisdom and foolishness.

The theme of madness also extends beyond Lear and the Fool. Characters like Gloucester’s illegitimate son, Edmund, manipulate others by feigning madness or using it to their advantage. This manipulation demonstrates how madness can be used as a tool for personal gain or to further one’s own agenda.

Additionally, “King Lear” explores the theme of justice and injustice. The play reflects on human suffering and questions whether divine justice exists or if it is merely an illusion. The ultimate fate of characters such as Goneril, Regan, and Edmund serves as a commentary on moral order and raises questions about the fairness of their punishments.

Overall, the themes of madness and sanity, as well as justice and injustice, contribute to the tragedy and moral complexity of “King Lear.” These themes resonate with contemporary audiences due to their universal appeal in exploring human nature, power dynamics, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Understanding these themes enriches one’s appreciation for Shakespeare’s profound insights into the human condition. Understanding the Themes of “King Lear” Enhances Appreciation for Shakespeare’s Work

In conclusion, the themes of power, betrayal, madness, justice, and tragedy in Shakespeare’s “King Lear” contribute to its profound impact and enduring relevance. These themes intertwine to create a complex web of human emotions and moral dilemmas that resonate with audiences across time.

The theme of power and authority is exemplified through King Lear’s ill-fated decision to divide his kingdom among his daughters. This act sets in motion a chain of events that exposes the corrupting influence of power on characters like Goneril, Regan, and Edmund. Their thirst for power leads to betrayal and ultimately contributes to their tragic downfall.

Betrayal and loyalty are central themes explored in the play. Lear’s daughters’ betrayal of their father showcases the devastating consequences of familial treachery. However, characters like Kent and Edgar demonstrate unwavering loyalty, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.

The theme of madness and sanity is symbolically significant in “King Lear.” Lear’s descent into madness reflects the disintegration of order in both his personal life and the kingdom. The Fool’s apparent madness serves as a source of wisdom, offering poignant insights into the human condition.

Justice and injustice are examined through the play’s reflection on human suffering and divine justice or lack thereof. The ultimate fate of characters serves as a commentary on moral order, highlighting the consequences of immoral actions.

These themes continue to captivate contemporary audiences due to their universal appeal. The exploration of power dynamics, betrayal within relationships, mental instability, questions of justice, and tragic outcomes remain relevant in our society today.

Understanding these themes enriches one’s appreciation for Shakespeare’s work by revealing its timeless relevance and moral complexity. By delving into these profound themes, readers gain deeper insights into human nature and are compelled to reflect upon their own lives.

In essence, “King Lear” stands as a testament to Shakespeare’s genius, showcasing his ability to explore profound themes that resonate with audiences throughout the ages.

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King Lear Themes

Theme is a pervasive idea presented in a literary piece.  King Lear , a masterpiece of William Shakespeare , has very thoughtful themes.  It presents the dilemma of human relations and exposes the dark sides of human nature, such as infidelity and ungratefulness.  Some of the major themes in King Lear have been discussed below.

Themes in King Lear

Age and the process of aging is a significant theme of the play , King Lear. When a person starts aging, he starts losing his significance. As King Lear starts aging, he starts making decisions about his kingdom and makes a bet on the persons expressing their profound love for them. However, old King Lear does not understand Cordelia is the loyal one. Sadly, he trusts the deceitful ones. On the other hand, Edmund also waits for his father, Gloucester, to die so that he could inherit something to win social legitimacy in the eyes of the social fabric he wants to live in. In fact, King Lear’s age heralds a new social circle forming around him where he is not the kingpin, but just a commoner having no authority as in the past. However, he wants to retain the same authority even in his old age, that seems impossible. That is why he admits of his being old and the desire for retirement without having to abandon his privileges. Therefore, old age and its attendant features of losing privileges.

Family Relations

Family relationships and family loyalty are equally prominent as King Lear checks the loyalty of his daughters through their love. Though superficially, love is in abundance, it becomes scary when it comes to its application and demonstration. Cordelia, however, shows true loyalty to her father by staying with him until the end when Goneril and Regan conspire to keep the old man out of their castles. Despite severe emotional consequences and legal and regal repercussions, Goneril and Regan do not budge from their stand of keeping the king out. Similarly, Gloucester’s act of fathering Edmund seems a matter of childishness for him and causes sufferings for all others. King Lear’s earlier act of seeing familial love through expressions of love seems to hinge upon the fact that he wants to ensure family loyalty and blindly trusts the one who vocally vows to love him but abandon him later.

Madness and ensuing foolishness is another major theme of the play, King Lear. However, most of the characters , including that of the king, try to determine their reasonable behavior toward the choice they have to make. However, most often, they fail to think clearly. It is because most of them, including the King himself, try to keep their own interests before them, ignoring the interests of others. That is why he puts the entire kingdom in harm’s way with the desire for power come what may . His irrational desire to hear only love and nothing else and then irrational decision to cling to power even after dividing his kingdom seems a foolish decision, bordering madness. That is why the court jester, mostly known as fool, appears to help King Lear realize the situation prevalent in his kingdom. He makes the king realizes his own madness about judging people.

Significance of Order

Order and its significance in the world is another major theme of the play, King Lear. It is clear from the very start that King Lear is disrupting this order. He brings chaos in his family and his country. His desire for seeming love, even if it is flattery, makes him reject those who want to bring order and calmness. He almost disowns Cordelia for her honesty and divides his kingdom among two undeserving daughters. This brings chaos on which the court jester makes a commentary. Interestingly, even the jester taunts him for throwing away his kingdom. In fact, where Cordelia and Kent bring order and strength, Edmund, Edgar, Goneril, and Regan are the forces who bring disorder and disruption. Even King Lear himself wants disruption as he finally curses his treacherous daughter.

King Lear tests the loyalty of his daughters and their husbands through a test. He asks them to tell him how much they love him. Regan and Goneril instantly shower praises on him, vowing their everlasting and strong love, while Cordelia, who actually takes care of him and loves him very much, only states that she loves him. The king was enamored of this superficial realization of the love of his daughters that he instantly considers both of them worthy of the heritage to share his kingdom. However, he does not take care of Cordelia. Instead, he instantly disinherits her. Despite this treatment, she stays loyal to her father, demonstrating that the relationships of father-daughter are not subject to property and divisions; rather, it is an enduring bond of loyalty.

The theme of justice is intertwined with the theme of royal authority. King Lear does injustice to his daughter, Cordelia, who, despite her intense love for her father, is thrown away, while Regan and Goneril’s deception is bought by King Lear. He, however, faces injustice at the hands of both of his daughters so much so that he is left in the stormy weather to bear the brunt of his own doing. Later, he repents over this injustice meted out to him, saying that he has faced punishment more than his sin. However, later he seeks justice through a mock trial. Another point of injustice is to Edmund committed by Gloucester that he is illegitimate, which makes him jealous of his brother for which he plans his brother’s exile and murder Cordelia. The punishment meted out to him by the end is another instance of justice.

Appearance and Reality

Appearance and reality is another important theme of the play. Lear believes in the false narrative of his daughters, Goneril and Regan, that they love her more than he can think. However, he equally turns away his attention from the reality that his daughter, Cordelia, loves him the most. The appearances of his two elder daughters fool him, and he ignores his daughter, who shows him true love and loyalty. Similarly, Edmond, the illegitimate son of Gloucester, does not accept this reality and conspires to discredit his brother, Edgar, the legitimate son.

Compassion and humanity is another thematic strand that runs parallel to other themes. Although King Lear sends Kent into exile, he still comes back to serve him as a farmer. He knows that the king has done a wrong and would soon face repercussions. So, when the king sees the jester, he feels sympathy and compassion for him. The king also tears down his clothes to show his sympathy for poor Tom when he sees such poor people facing problems in life.

Nature and its impacts, like the storm in the play, shows that the kingdom of King Lear is in turmoil on account of his own actions. The turns in weather conditions also reflect how King Lear faces mental instability that leads to his confusion and madness. This is actually, as stated by King Lear himself, a tempest in his mind reflected through nature.

Vision is a minor yet important theme of the play, which is evident in many ways. Sometimes in literally and sometimes symbolically. King Lear’s call to his daughters to demonstrate their love is a loss of his vision that cost him his kingdom.

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King Lear Theme of Justice

The excessive cruelty and portrayal of human suffering in the play make the world seem terribly unjust. Throughout King Lear , characters constantly appeal to the gods for aid but are rarely answered. The play suggests that, either the gods do not exist, or they are unimaginably cruel. King Lear seems to argue that it is up to human beings to administer justice in this world.

Questions About Justice

• What is the play's position on the existence of divine power and divine justice?
• When do characters pray to the gods? Are their prayers ever answered?
• Do any characters get their just desserts in King Lear ? Why or why not?
• How and why does Cordelia die at the play's end? How does her death shape our understanding of justice in the play?

Chew on This

In King Lear , the gods either don't exist or, simply don't care about human suffering – suggesting that justice does not exist in the world. The play suggests that the only way there can ever be justice in the world is when human beings behave justly toward one another.

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W hy's T his F unny?

by William Shakespeare

King lear themes, inheritance.

The central conflict of King Lear revolves around the concept of inheritance. At the beginning of the play, Lear aims to test his three daughters' loyalty before gifting them their portion of his land. The prospect of this inheritance is what fuels the boorish behavior of Goneril and Regan, but it is also Lear's selfish way of wielding continued power over his three daughters. In many ways, the inheritance proposed at the beginning of the play represents Lear's last form of control as a ruler.

At the beginning of the play, Lear is represented as a controlling authority figure. Having divided his land into three parts to be designated to each of his three daughters, Lear wields power over his children in a way that spurs competition between them. Lear's bizarre and self-aggrandizing test of his daughters' affections can be interpreted as one of the ways he combats the reality of his age: becoming weaker physically, Lear attempts to hold onto power and control by orchestrating a division of his lands before his death.

Predictably, Lear's plan in Act One to impose order on his three daughters quickly disintegrates, in part because of Lear's own ego. Once Cordelia confesses her true, but misunderstood, loyalty to her father, Lear strips Cordelia of her inheritance altogether. This decision is what leads to Goneril and Regan's betrayal of Lear and the general breakdown of order in the play. His decision also catalyzes his own descent into madness and his ultimate demise.

Modern productions of King Lear almost always present Lear as noticeably decrepit, and tend to emphasize his aging body as the play progresses. This focus on aging is central to the conflicts and plots of the play, as Lear's age inspires both anxiety in himself and greediness in Goneril and Regan, who eventually turn on him for their own gain. Ironically, in Lear's attempt to maintain political and familial control despite his physical decline, he ends up pushing himself further into senility.

Many describe Lear's character trajectory within the play as a fall from stern authority figure to madman. Indeed, his episode at Dover Beach is often used as evidence for Lear's lost grasp on reality. However, it is important to note that in his seemingly declining state, Lear gains insight into his mistakes as both a ruler and a father. Lear's "mad" ramblings even come to resemble remarks of the fool, who is often considered, ironically, the wisest character in the play.

Sight and Blindness

The play is rife with imagery of light, seeing, blindness, and darkness. This focus mirrors the figurative "blindness" that both Lear and Gloucester are guilty of, as they severely misjudge their children in the beginning of the play and experience the consequences thereafter. Lear, ironically, gains figurative "sight" as he becomes more mad, while Gloucester is literally blinded by Regan and Cornwall in Act Three. However, just like Lear, Gloucester gains a form of "sight" only after literally losing his ability to see, emphasizing how truth often only appears to one in retrospect.

Justice and Nihilism

King Lear is often discussed as a play that is obsessed with justice and punishment: Lear strips Cordelia of her inheritance after misinterpreting her declaration of love, Gloucester is blinded for potentially committing treason, Lear's mistake leads him to go mad, and Goneril and Regan's brutish behavior ultimately ends in their murder-suicide. As a tragedy, the sheer number of deaths and brutal punishments is not out of the ordinary for the genre. However, the play suggests that these deaths derived from misunderstanding, lack of communication, and uncertainty more generally. As such, many argue that King Lear presents a nihilistic view of the world, in which all values are inherently meaningless, including the concept of justice.

King Lear Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for King Lear is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

"Themes of King Lear are skilfully presented through imagery and symbolism"

King Lear is rife with animal imagery, as the play is known for interrogating whether mankind is anything "more" than animal after all. Most often, animal imagery appears in the form of savage or carnivorous beasts, usually associated with Goneril...

A tragic hero moves the reader to pity,since his misfortune is greater than he deserves,and also creates fear,since his tragedy might easily befall one of us.To what extent does Lear fit the definition of a tragic hero?

Check this out:

http://bailieborocslibrary.weebly.com/blog/lear-develops-more-as-a-tragic-hero-than-gloucester-discuss

Edmund's "Up With Bastards" soliloquy in King Lear

The repetition makes Edmund sound harsh and angry.

Study Guide for King Lear

King Lear study guide contains a biography of William Shakespeare, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About King Lear
• King Lear Summary
• King Lear Video
• Character List

Essays for King Lear

King Lear literature essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of King Lear.

• The Heroines of Crime and Punishment, King Lear, and To the Lighthouse
• Folly of the Fool
• Sight and Consciousness: An Interpretive Study in King Lear
• An Examination of the Inverse Tropes of Sight and Blindness in King Lear
• Gender, Power, and Economics in King Lear

Lesson Plan for King Lear

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to King Lear
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• King Lear Bibliography

E-Text of King Lear

King Lear E-Text contains the full text of King Lear

• Persons Represented

Wikipedia Entries for King Lear

• Introduction
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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — King Lear — A Theme Of Justice In King Lear By William Shakespeare

A Theme of Justice in King Lear by William Shakespeare

• Categories: King Lear Literary Devices William Shakespeare

About this sample

Words: 988 |

Published: Feb 8, 2022

Words: 988 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Works Cited

• Bloom, H. (Ed.). (2007). King Lear (Bloom's Modern Critical Interpretations). Chelsea House Publications.
• Boyce, C. (2000). Shakespeare A to Z: The Essential Reference to His Plays, His Poems, His Life and Times, and More. Delta.
• Brown, J. (2014). Shakespeare and Psychoanalytic Theory. Bloomsbury Arden Shakespeare.
• Foakes, R. A. (Ed.). (1997). King Lear (The New Cambridge Shakespeare). Cambridge University Press.
• Garber, M. (2016). Shakespeare and Modern Culture. Anchor.
• Greenblatt, S. (2005). Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare. W. W. Norton & Company.
• Holland, P. (2013). A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare : 1599. Penguin.
• Kastan, D. S. (2009). King Lear: A Norton Critical Edition (3rd ed.). W. W. Norton & Company.
• Maguire, L. (2018). Shakespearean Tragedy: Lectures on Hamlet, Othello , King Lear, Macbeth (3rd ed.). Routledge.
• Wells, S., & Stanton, S. (Eds.). (2006). The Cambridge Companion to Shakespeare on Stage. Cambridge University Press.

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William Shakespeare

• Literature Notes
• Divine Justice
• Play Summary
• About King Lear
• Character List
• Summary and Analysis
• Act I: Scene 1
• Act I: Scene 2
• Act I: Scene 3
• Act I: Scene 4
• Act I: Scene 5
• Act II: Scene 1
• Act II: Scene 2
• Act II: Scene 3
• Act II: Scene 4
• Act III: Scene 1
• Act III: Scene 2
• Act III: Scene 3
• Act III: Scene 4
• Act III: Scene 5
• Act III: Scene 6
• Act III: Scene 7
• Act IV: Scene 1
• Act IV: Scene 2
• Act IV: Scene 3
• Act IV: Scene 4
• Act IV: Scene 5
• Act IV: Scene 6
• Act IV: Scene 7
• Act V: Scene 1
• Act V: Scene 2
• Act V: Scene 3
• Character Analysis
• Earl of Gloucester
• Earl of Kent / Caius
• Edgar / Poor Tom
• Duke of Albany
• Duke of Cornwall
• King of France
• Duke of Burgundy
• Character Map
• William Shakespeare Biography
• Critical Essays
• Major Themes
• Major Symbols
• Parent-Child Relationships : The Neglect of Natural Law
• Kingship and Lear
• Famous Quotes
• Film Versions
• Full Glossary
• Essay Questions
• Practice Projects
• Cite this Literature Note

Critical Essays Divine Justice

King Lear inspires many philosophical questions; chief among them is the existence of divine justice. This concept was particularly important during the Elizabethan era, because religion played such a significant role in everyday life. Religious leaders directed people to expect that they would have to answer to a higher authority, expressing some hope that good would triumph and be rewarded over evil. But throughout King Lear , good does not triumph without honorable characters suffering terrible loss. In fact, at the play's conclusion, many of the good characters lie dead on the stage — Lear, Gloucester, and Cordelia. In addition, the audience hears that Kent will soon die, and the Fool has earlier disappeared, presumably to die. Of course, the evil characters are also dead, but their punishment is to be expected according to the laws of divine justice. But how then does the audience account for the punishment and, finally, the death of the good characters in King Lear?

Lear makes several poor choices, most importantly in misjudging the sincerity of his daughters' words; but when he flees out into the open heath during a storm, his madness seems a painful and excessive punishment to witness. Parallel to Lear's punishment is that which Gloucester suffers. The plucking of Gloucester's eyes can be perceived as another instance in which divine justice is lacking. Gloucester has made several errors in judgment, as has Lear; but the brutal nature of Gloucester's blinding — the plucking out of his eyes and the crushing of them under Cornwall's boots — is surely in excess of any errors he might have made.

Both Lear and Gloucester endure terrible physical and mental suffering as punishment for their misjudgment, but before dying, both men are reunited with the child each earlier rejected. This resolution of the child-parent conflict, which earlier tore apart both families, may be seen as an element of divine justice, although it offers little gratification for the audience.

Throughout King Lear , the audience has witnessed Edmund's growing success as a reward for his evil machinations. But when Edgar and Edmund meet in Act V, the duel between these two brothers is very different from the traditional match for sport. Christian tradition recalls several biblical battles between good and evil, as divine justice is an important component of trial by combat. The duel between Edgar and Edmund is really a conflict that replays this ongoing battle between good and evil, with Edgar's defeat of Edmund obviously signaling the triumph of righteousness over corruption. Edgar's victory, as well as his succession of Lear, as king of Britain, points to an intervention of divine justice.

And yet, when Lear enters with Cordelia's body, any immediate ideas about divine justice vanish. The deaths of Cornwall, Edmund, Regan, and Goneril have lulled the audience into a belief that the gods would restore order to this chaotic world. But Cordelia's death creates new questions about the role of divine justice; a just god could not account for the death of this faithful and loving daughter.

In spite of the seemingly senseless death of this young woman, Shakespeare never intended for his audience to escape the painful questions that Cordelia's death creates. Instead, the audience is expected to struggle with the question of why such tragedies occur. The deaths of Gloucester and Lear are acceptable. Both have made serious errors in judgment, and although both came to recognize their complicity in the destruction that they caused, the natural resolution of this change was an acceptance of their future, whatever it held. But Cordelia is young and blameless. She is completely good and pure.

At the play's conclusion, the stage is littered with bodies, some deserving of death and some the innocent victims of evil. Cornwall has been destroyed by his own honest servant; Edmund is killed by the brother he sought to usurp; both Goneril and Regan are dead, one murdered and the other a suicide; the obedient steward, Oswald, is dead, a victim of his own compulsion to obey. In the end, no easy answer surfaces to the question of divine justice, except that perhaps man must live as if divine justice exists, even if it's only a product of rich and wishful imaginations.

Previous Major Symbols

Next Parent-Child Relationships : The Neglect of Natural Law

King Lear: Themes

• Justice: This theme explores the imbalance of fairness in the kingdom and the moral rightness of the characters’ actions; it questions whether justice exists in the universe.
• Compassion: The theme of compassion is primarily manifested in the characters who display kindness and empathy in response to the suffering of others despite their own troubles.
• Appearance vs Reality: This theme draws attention to the discrepancy between how characters appear on the surface and their true inner selves or intentions, particularly in the ruthlessness of Goneril and Regan, and the virtue of the ‘mad’ Lear and ‘foolish’ Fool.
• Nature: The theme of nature signifies the characters’ primitive, animalistic instincts and their relationship with the natural world, often highlighting the brutality and chaos in human nature.
• Blindness vs Sight: This theme explores the concept of understanding and insight versus ignorance and inability to perceive the truth, both physically (Gloucester’s blinding) and metaphorically (Lear’s folly).
• Madness: This theme addresses the descent into insanity of King Lear, questioning sanity and reason, and demonstrating how this serves as a mirror to the chaos in the kingdom.
• Family: The theme of family presents the dynamics and conflicts within the royal family and the consequences of broken familial bonds, emphasising themes of loyalty, betrayal, and power struggles.
• Gender: This theme criticises patriarchal rule by exploring the destructive power and deceit of King Lear’s daughters, offering a critique of traditional gender norms and highlighting the need for balance and respect in gender relationships.

William Shakespeare

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Although Lear begins as a figure of authority and order, when he gives up his power and Goneril and Regan turn against him, he falls apart, going mad. Moreover, his personal decline parallels a farther-reaching dissolution of order and justice in the British state. Lear's error, based on blindness and misjudgment, doesn't just ruin him personally. It leads to a political situation in which there is no order to guarantee justice, despite his (and Gloucester's) repeated appeals to the gods.

Cordelia's first answer to Lear's command that she pronounce her love for him, the answer that first enrages him against her, is (in 1.1) is "nothing." After that first appearance, the word "nothing" recurs constantly throughout the play in the mouths of multiple characters. The repetition of this word highlights the theme of nothingness, and of the complete lack of meaning that results from nothingness – after all, when everything is destroyed, it is not possible to compare anything to anything else, and in such a void, without any ability to compare, nothing can have any meaning. And, ultimately, it is hard to argue that the ending of the play offers any justice at all: while the "bad guys" of Edmund, Goneril, Regan, and Cornwall are all killed, so are the heroes of Lear, Gloucester, and Cordelia. Nearly the entire social order, good and bad, is annihilated and turned to nothing. As Lear himself cries out in the moments before he dies, while holding the dead Cordelia in his arms, with his kingdom destroyed: "Never, never, never, never, never" (5.3.372).

Disintegration, Chaos, Nothingness ThemeTracker

Disintegration, Chaos, Nothingness Quotes in King Lear

King Lear Justice Quotes

Thou, Nature, art my goddess. To thy law My services are bound.

– William Shakespeare

Why "bastard?" Wherefore "base?" When my dimensions are as well compact, My mind as generous, and my shape as true, As honest madam’s issue?

Why brand they us With "base," with "baseness," "bastardy," "base," "base?"

Now, gods, stand up for bastards!

O villain, villain! His very opinion in the letter. Unnatural, detested, brutish villain! Worse than brutish! Go, sirrah, seek him; I’ll apprehend him: abominable villain! Where is he?

He cannot be such a monster.

O heavens, If you do love old men, if your sweet sway Show obedience, if you yourselves are old, Make it your cause. Send down, and take my part.

O, reason not the need! our basest beggars Are in the poorest thing superfluous. Allow not nature more than nature needs, Man’s life’s as cheap as beast’s.

Rumble thy bellyful! Spit, fire! spout, rain! Nor rain, wind, thunder, fire are my daughters. I tax not you, you elements, with unkindness. I never gave you kingdom, called you children, You owe me no subscription. Then let fall Your horrible pleasure. Here I stand your slave, A poor, infirm, weak, and despised old man. But yet I call you servile ministers, That will with two pernicious daughters join Your high-engendered battles ‘gainst a head So old and white as this. O, ho, ’tis foul!

Let the great gods That keep this dreadful pother o’er our heads Find out their enemies now. Tremble, thou wretch, That hast within thee undivulgèd crimes Unwhipped of justice. Hide thee, thou bloody hand, Thou perjured, and thou simular of virtue That art incestuous. Caitiff, to pieces shake, That under covert and convenient seeming Has practiced on man’s life. Close pent-up guilts, Rive your concealing continents and cry These dreadful summoners grace. I am a man More sinned against than sinning.

I am a man More sinned against than sinning.

When priests are more in word than matter, When brewers mar their malt with water, When nobles are their tailors’ tutors, No heretics burned but wenches’ suitors, When every case in law is right, No squire in debt, nor no poor knight; When slanders do not live in tongues, Nor cutpurses come not to throngs, When usurers tell their gold i’ th’ field, And bawds and whores do churches build, Then shall the realm of Albion Come to great confusion; Then comes the time, who lives to see ‘t, That going shall be used with feet. This prophecy Merlin shall make, for I live before his time.

Poor naked wretches, whereso’er you are, That bide the pelting of this pitiless storm, How shall your houseless heads and unfed sides, Your loop’d and window’d raggedness, defend you From seasons such as these? O, I have ta’en Too little care of this! Take physic, pomp; Expose thyself to feel what wretches feel, That thou may’st shake the superflux to them And show the heavens more just.

Arraign her first; ’tis Goneril. I here take my oath before this honourable assembly, kicked the poor king her father.

Cry you mercy, I took you for a joint stool.

My tears begin to take his part so much They’ll mar my counterfeiting.

Though well we may not pass upon his life Without the form of justice, yet our power Shall do a courtesy to our wrath, which men May blame but not control.

Hold your hand, my lord. I have served you ever since I was a child, But better service have I never done you Than now to bid you hold.

I have received a hurt. Follow me, lady. – Turn out that eyeless villain. Throw this slave Upon the dunghill. – Regan, I bleed apace. Untimely comes this hurt.

As flies to wanton boys, are we to the gods. They kill us for their sport.

Heavens, deal so still: Let the superfluous and lust-dieted man, That slaves your ordinance, that will not see Because he does not feel, feel your power quickly. So distribution should undo excess And each man have enough.

This shows you are above, You justicers, that these our nether crimes So speedily can venge.

A man may see how this world goes with no eyes. Look with thine ears: see how yond justice rails upon yond simple thief. Hark, in thine ear: change places; and, handy-dandy, which is the justice, which is the thief?

Thou rascal beadle, hold thy bloody hand! Why dost thou lash that whore? Strip thine own back; Thou hotly lust’st to use her in that kind For which thou whipp’st her.

Through tattered clothes small vices do appear. Robes and furred gowns hide all. Plate sin with gold, And the strong lance of justice hurtless breaks. Arm it in rags, a pygmy’s straw does pierce it.

You do me wrong to take me out o’ th’ grave: Thou art a soul in bliss, but I am bound Upon a wheel of fire, that mine own tears Do scald like molten lead.

LEAR: Be your tears wet? Yes, faith. I pray, weep not. If you have poison for me, I will drink it. I know you do not love me, for your sisters Have, as I do remember, done me wrong. You have some cause; they have not. CORDELIA: No cause, no cause.

Say if I do; the laws are mine, not thine. Who can arraign me for ‘t?

My name is Edgar, and thy father’s son. The gods are just, and of our pleasant vices Make instruments to plague us. The dark and vicious place where thee he got Cost him his eyes.

The gods are just, and of our pleasant vices Make instruments to plague us.

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Discuss the theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s King Lear

Table of Contents

The theme of madness is a central and compelling aspect of William Shakespeare’s tragedy “King Lear.” In this play, madness is explored through multiple characters, most notably King Lear himself.

Theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s King Lear:- The theme of madness serves as a reflection of the chaos and disintegration of both personal and societal order. This analysis will delve into the various manifestations of madness in “King Lear” and its significance in the overall narrative.

King Lear’s descent into madness is one of the most prominent and tragic portrayals of mental instability in all of Shakespeare’s works. The gradual unraveling of Lear’s sanity is triggered by his ill-fated decision to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their flattery.

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Theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s King Lear:- As he realizes the depth of his mistake and experiences the betrayal of his daughters, Lear’s mind becomes fragmented, and he loses touch with reality.

Lear’s madness is marked by moments of profound lucidity interspersed with episodes of delusion and erratic behavior. In his madness, Lear retreats to the stormy heath, stripping himself of his noble identity and embracing the chaos of nature. His dialogue becomes disjointed and filled with nonsensical ramblings, reflecting the disarray of his mind.

Theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s King Lear:- Through Lear’s madness, Shakespeare explores the fragility of human reason and the devastating consequences of unchecked pride and flawed judgment.

In addition to Lear, other characters in the play exhibit signs of madness, further emphasizing the pervasive nature of this theme. The Fool, a companion and voice of reason to Lear, uses his witty and cryptic language to express truths that others fail to comprehend.

Theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s King Lear:- His role as a licensed fool allows him to criticize and expose the folly and madness of those in power. The Fool’s presence highlights the blurred line between sanity and madness and serves as a contrasting voice of reason in a world engulfed by chaos.

Also Read:- William Shakespeare Biography and Works

The character of Edgar also adopts a feigned madness as part of his disguise while on the run from his illegitimate brother, Edmund. Adopting the persona of Poor Tom, Edgar engages in bizarre and nonsensical behavior to protect himself. This simulated madness allows Edgar to navigate the treacherous world of the play and ultimately serve as a guide and support to his father, Gloucester.

Theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s King Lear:- Edgar’s feigned madness provides a parallel to Lear’s genuine descent into madness, further exploring the fragility of human sanity and the potential for deception.

The theme of madness in “King Lear” is deeply intertwined with the breakdown of societal order and the disruption of natural hierarchies. Lear’s madness mirrors the chaos that engulfs the kingdom as his decision to abdicate his power and divide his kingdom plunges the realm into turmoil. The disorder and madness that manifest within the characters reflect the unraveling of the social fabric and the moral decay of the world depicted in the play.

Furthermore, madness is used as a means of social commentary, critiquing the corrupting influence of power and the folly of unchecked ambition. Characters such as Edmund, Regan, and Goneril demonstrate their own form of madness as they pursue power at any cost, resorting to deceit, betrayal, and manipulation. Their actions reveal the destructive consequences of avarice and an insatiable thirst for control.

King Lear “Themes”

“King Lear” is one of William Shakespeare’s most renowned tragedies, believed to have been written between 1603 and 1606. The play delves into various profound themes that explore the complexities of human nature, society, and the consequences of actions. Here are some of the prominent themes in “King Lear”:

• Madness and Sanity: Madness is a pervasive theme throughout the play. It is depicted both through the character of King Lear himself, who descends into madness as a result of his ill-advised actions and mistreatment by his daughters, and through the Fool, whose seemingly nonsensical ramblings often contain profound truths. The theme of madness raises questions about the nature of sanity, the vulnerability of human reason, and the fragility of the human mind.
• Filial Ingratitude: “King Lear” explores the theme of ingratitude, particularly within the context of parent-child relationships. Lear’s two eldest daughters, Goneril and Regan, betray their father’s trust and display ingratitude for the love and care he has shown them. This theme highlights the breakdown of familial bonds, the corruption of power, and the moral decay that can arise from such ingratitude.
• Power and Authority: The play extensively examines the theme of power and authority and how it can corrupt individuals. Lear’s initial abdication of his power leads to chaos and the exploitation of his vulnerability by his daughters. The struggle for power and the abuse of authority are seen not only in the realm of monarchy but also within the familial and political spheres, revealing the destructive consequences of unchecked power.
• Justice and Injustice: The theme of justice is central to the play. Lear’s tragic journey forces him to confront the injustices of the world, both personal and societal. The play questions the nature of justice and explores the consequences when justice is perverted or denied. It also examines the idea of cosmic justice and the concept that wrongdoing will ultimately be punished.
• Nature and the Natural Order: The play explores the relationship between humanity and the natural world. The storm on the heath serves as a metaphor for the chaos and disorder unleashed when the natural order is disrupted. The theme of nature emphasizes the moral order and harmony that can be found in the natural world and highlights the consequences of defying or disregarding it.

Theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s King Lear:- These themes collectively contribute to the complexity and depth of “King Lear” as a tragedy, unraveling the consequences of human actions, the fragility of relationships, and the complexities of power and justice.

The theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s “King Lear” is a powerful and intricate exploration of the human psyche, the breakdown of order, and the consequences of flawed judgment. Lear’s descent into madness, marked by moments of lucidity and delusion, showcases the devastating effects of pride and flawed decision-making.

Theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s King Lear:- The presence of the Fool as a voice of reason and Edgar’s feigned madness further highlight the blurred lines between sanity and insanity. The theme of madness also serves as a reflection of the societal chaos and moral decay within the play, illustrating the destructive consequences of unchecked ambition and the corruption of power.

Theme of madness in William Shakespeare’s King Lear:- Through the exploration of madness, Shakespeare provides profound social commentary on the fragility of reason and the consequences of disrupting natural hierarchies. “King Lear” remains a timeless tragedy that invites readers to contemplate the complexities of the human mind and the tumultuous nature of the human condition.

Q: What is the main theme of “King Lear”?

A: The main themes of “King Lear” include the nature of power, the consequences of flawed judgment, the breakdown of familial and societal order, and the fragility of human sanity.

Q: How does madness play a role in “King Lear”?

A: Madness is a significant theme in “King Lear.” It is primarily explored through the character of King Lear himself, whose descent into madness reflects the chaos and disintegration of personal and societal order. Other characters, such as the Fool and Edgar, also exhibit madness, either genuine or feigned, adding layers of complexity to the theme.

Q: What triggers King Lear’s descent into madness?

A: King Lear’s descent into madness is triggered by his decision to divide his kingdom among his daughters based on their flattery rather than genuine love. When he realizes the betrayal of his two eldest daughters and the loss of his power and identity, Lear’s mind begins to unravel.

Q: How does Shakespeare portray madness in the play?

A: Shakespeare portrays madness through the use of language, behavior, and imagery. Lear’s dialogue becomes fragmented and filled with nonsensical ramblings, while his actions and interactions with others display erratic and unpredictable behavior. The feigned madness of characters like Edgar and the witty cryptic language of the Fool also contribute to the exploration of madness in the play.

Q: What is the relationship between madness and societal order in “King Lear”?

A: The theme of madness in “King Lear” is closely tied to the breakdown of societal order. Lear’s descent into madness mirrors the chaos and turmoil that engulfs the kingdom after he divides his power. The disruption of natural hierarchies and the corrupting influence of power are depicted through the madness of various characters, reflecting the decay of the social fabric.

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