Analysis of the Two Patriarchs from King Lear
Analysis of the Two Patriarchs from King Lear
In the Shakespearean tragedy “King Lear”, the two patriarchs Lear and Gloucester are different, yet they do have their similarities. Lear is an old King who no longer wants the responsibility of running the kingdom and its land. He therefore decides to divide his land in three, and present a piece to each of his daughters. This already shows a glimpse of Lear’s character; he is not too bright. He is and has been king for some time; he knew the responsibility of being King, yet he now no longer “wants” it. This shows how he is irresponsible and lazy. Also, in dividing up his land, he is being un- wise, a peasant, let alone a King would or should know that one should never divide up a country. Thus comes the saying, “divide and conquer”.
Gloucester, however seems to be a rather responsible man. He has helped conceive a bastard son, during that era, a bastard was usually never thought of, let alone educated, cared for and loved. Gloucester cares for, and loves his bastard son Edmund, as much as his legitimate son, Edgar. “ But I have also a son, sir, by order of law, some year elder/ than this, who yet is no dearer to my account:” ( I,i,18-19)
Lear and Gloucester also have their similarities that are shown throughout act I, scenes i and ii. They are both rash and jump to conclusions. Lear was rash in his decision to banish, with the threat of killing, his long time friend, Kent. All Kent did was look out for Lear, and try to reason with him. Even after Kent has been banished, he continues to look out for the well being of his friend. “And your large speeches may/ your deeds approve, / That good effects may spring from words of love.” ( I, i, 183-184) Lear also jumps to conclusions when Cordelia tells him of her love for him. He thinks that she does not love him. “ So young, and so untender?” ( I, i, 105) He is also rash when this happens; he disowns Cordelia. He refuses to see the truth, which he knows; that Cordelia loves him the most. He gives her no dowry, and worst of all he disowns her. He says that he never wants to see his once most beloved daughter. “Let it...