Author |
Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616 |
Title |
King Lear
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Note |
There are improved editions of this title. See eBook #100 (the Complete Shakespeare) as well as #1532 (this specific play).
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Summary |
"King Lear" by William Shakespeare is a tragedy written during the early 17th century. The play explores themes of power, family dynamics, and madness through the story of King Lear, who decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their professions of love for him. The tragic misjudgments that result from his decision set off a chain of events leading to suffering and chaos. The opening of the play introduces King Lear as he prepares to divide his kingdom, calling upon his daughters to declare their love for him. Lear's elder daughters, Goneril and Regan, offer grand and insincere flattery, while his youngest daughter, Cordelia, chooses to speak truthfully and is cast aside as a result. This sets the stage for themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the consequences of folly. Additionally, we are introduced to major supporting characters, including Gloucester and his sons, Edmund and Edgar, whose own subplot of deception and loyalty mirrors Lear's tragic fall. The opening scenes establish a sense of impending tragedy as familial bonds unravel amidst the chaos of ambition and resentment. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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Language |
English |
LoC Class |
PR: Language and Literatures: English literature
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Subject |
Tragedies
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Subject |
Fathers and daughters -- Drama
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Subject |
Inheritance and succession -- Drama
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Subject |
Lear, King (Legendary character) -- Drama
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Subject |
Britons -- Drama
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Subject |
Kings and rulers -- Drama
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Subject |
Aging parents -- Drama
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Category |
Text |
EBook-No. |
1794 |
Release Date |
Jun 1, 1999 |
Most Recently Updated |
Apr 2, 2015 |
Copyright Status |
Public domain in the USA. |
Downloads |
221 downloads in the last 30 days. |
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