Others contend he behaved altruistically by ensuring his daughters would not quarrel after his death in order to gain leadership. Here, Lear voices his wish to live the remainder of his life in a care-free and luxurious fashion. Know we have divided / In three our kingdom and ‘tis our fast intent / To shake all cares and business from our age, / Conferring them on younger strengths while we / Unburthen'd crawl toward death” (1.1, 34-39). Lear states, “Meantime we shall express our darker purpose. Some argue this was a lazy, irresponsible, and self- interested act to rid himself of stress and obligations. The intentions behind this decision have been debated. Lear deviated from the norms of kingship by announcing his intention to prematurely relinquish his reign by dividing the kingdom between his three daughters. Moreover, the achievement of self-knowledge is analysed to reflect on Lear's growth.Īt the time King Lear was set (8th Century B.C.), the King was expected to reign until his death. Lear's character development is thoroughly examined to determine the role of humility in the play. The significance of role reversal between Lear and Fool are explained to highlight Lear's foolishness in contrast with his acquired wisdom. In addition to this, factors contributing to Lear's madness are discussed to reveal certain aspects of his human condition. His role in the destruction of his family structure is explained to exhibit his responsibility not only as a king, but also as a father. The repercussions of his actions are outlined to show the deadliness of these flaws. The manner in which he handles his retirement is criticised to uncover Lear's character flaws. A balanced argument is formed surrounding Lear's decision to resign from his kingly duties to determine his true intentions. He must learn that his offence against the kingdom is not just political, in the sense that he makes a wrong decision about how to govern, but also ethical and humanitarian, in that he comes to understand his own responsibility for rooted social injustice.
This essay argues Lear must learn humility. In William Shakespeare's tragedy play King Lear, Lear clearly lacks humility. Humility is an important virtue, especially for kings who hold immeasurable power. Humility in William Shakespeare's King Lear
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