King Lear

King Lear by William Shakespeare, published by Penguin Publishing Group in 1963, is a significant work in the realm of drama, encompassing 287 pages in English. This edition presents one of Shakespeare’s finest tragedies, exploring themes of power, betrayal, and familial relationships. The narrative follows the aging King Lear as he decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their declarations of love, leading to dire consequences for both him and his family.
Readers will find a poignant exploration of Lear’s descent into madness after being betrayed by his two older daughters, Goneril and Regan, who feign affection for their own gain. In contrast, Cordelia, the youngest daughter, remains true to her love but faces disinheritance for her honesty. The play delves into the complexities of loyalty and the human condition, featuring characters such as the loyal Fool and the disguised Earl of Kent, who navigate the treacherous landscape of Lear’s fractured kingdom. This edition invites readers to engage with the rich language and intricate themes that have made King Lear a lasting work in European literature.
Official synopsis Publisher
One of Shakespeare’s finest tragedies, the work displays a pessimism and nihilism that make it a 20th-century favorite. The aging King Lear decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters, allotting each a portion in proportion to the eloquence of her declaration of love. The hypocritical Goneril and Regan make grand pronouncements and are rewarded; Cordelia, the youngest daughter, who truly loves Lear, refuses to make an insincere speech to prove her love and is disinherited. The two older sisters mock Lear and renege on their promise to support him. Cast out, the king slips into madness and wanders about accompanied by his faithful Fool. He is aided by the Earl of Kent, who, though banished from the kingdom for having supported Cordelia, has remained in Britain disguised as a peasant.
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