King Lear and the Genre of Tragedy Essay - 960 Words

A tragedy is a genre typically defined as a play that deals with a series of events that lead to the downfall of the hero. Written between 1604 and 1606, ‘King Lear’ falls into the genre of tragedy, depicting the destruction and downfall of the main character (Abrams). The play centres on Lear, an aging king who, in his retirement, decides to divide his kingdom between his three daughters while retaining the title and privileges of being king. However, King Lear’s actions lead to the destruction of his family, tearing up his kingdom and creating a war. ‘King Lear’ is a tragedy as it follows the codes and conventions generally associated with the genre. The hero and main protagonist, King Lear, is an influential, highborn character. This†¦show more content†¦Therefore, in stripping Lear of his power, they are reducing him to the level of an animal. It is Lear’s fatal flaw of pride, his conceited nature and ignorance that lead to him sta ging the ‘love test’ in the beginning of the play. It is Lear’s actions based on this test that end up destroying his family. Family is the most evident theme portrayed in ‘King Lear’ and is the centre of the play. Lear is not only the king but also a family patriarch thus making him the most influential figure in his three daughter’s life (Novelguide). However, Lear is an egocentric character driven by his own wants and needs. He wants to be treated as a king, with all the privileges of being a king but without any of the responsibility or pressures of ruling a kingdom. This is evident in the ‘love test’ he stages with his daughters in the beginning of the play. â€Å"Tell me, my daughters - Since now we will divest us, both of us rule, Interest of territory, cares of state - Which of you shall we say doth love us most?† page 1256, lines 48-50 Lear asks his daughters to tell him just how much they love him, so that one might receive a larger amount of land to rule over. In his ignorance Lear expects these answers to be true and takes the falsified love Goneril and Reagan show in saying that they love him â€Å"†¦more than words can wield,† (page 1256, line 54) as a compliment, granting them a decent size of land, when in reality their affection forShow MoreRelatedWilliam Shakespeare s King Lear971 Words   |  4 PagesKing Lear Exam Question In all genres there are stereotypical elements. This academic essay will outline the importance and effect of the elements of dramatic tragedy within the given passage from King Lear, and how this is significant and develops an understanding in the audience towards the play as a whole. The passage given comes from Act 1; Scene 1 of ‘King Lear’. 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