Shakespeare's 'King Lear' - Analysis of the character of King Lear

Study Notes

King Lear opens amidst grandeur, showcasing his commanding authority over subjects.
His fatal error is the division of his kingdom, seeking to relinquish power for a carefree existence, which disrupts the natural order.
Lear believes he can control his legacy through a love-test for his daughters, revealing his hubris and self-obsession.
Goneril and Regan's deceitful praises illustrate Lear's blindness to their true natures, while Cordelia's honest response reflects true love.
Lear’s rage leads him to disown Cordelia and banish Kent, further blinding him to the wisdom around him.
The banishment of Cordelia and Kent precipitates Lear’s downfall, leading to his eventual madness.
Goneril and Regan's discussion highlights Lear's impending peripeteia, marking a shift in his fortunes.
Lear's abusive curse against Goneril foreshadows his unraveling as he steps into the storm, both literally and metaphorically.
The storm symbolises his inner turmoil as he grapples with madness, realizing the grim state of humanity.

Lear experiences anagnorisis in the storm, acknowledging his vulnerabilities: "a poor, infirm, weak and despised old man."
He begins to show empathy for the Fool, signifying a shift from egotism to concern for others.
Despite his madness, Lear recognises the effects of his own blindness: "I am a man more sinned against than sinning."
Lear’s encounter with Gloucester accentuates the theme that wisdom can be gained from suffering and insight about society's superficiality.
While deluded, Lear proposes a mock trial for his daughters, indicating a lack of complete understanding but a desire for accountability.

By Act 4, Lear demonstrates newfound self-awareness, especially in his admission of being old and foolish.
His reconciliation with Cordelia admits his past wrongs, seeking her forgiveness, highlighting their bond.
Lear’s longing for a simple, joyful future with Cordelia contrasts sharply with the tragedy of their separation.
Ultimately, despite gaining insight and empathy, Lear meets a tragic end characterized by loss and despair.
The brutal conclusion sees Lear carrying Cordelia’s body, culminating in his profound grief: “howl, howl, howl!”
Lear dies believing in Cordelia’s potential survival, which elevates his tragic trajectory, marking a culmination of his emotional suffering and enlightenment.
His journey from pride to despair exemplifies the themes of regret, love, and the harsh realities of fate in Shakespearean tragedy.