With reference to his dramatic methods, explain how Shakespeare presents the relationship between King Lear and Cordelia in 'King Lear'.

Within 'King Lear', Shakespeare presents the bond between Lear and his daughter Cordelia both as one born out of familial duty, yet retaining elements of a deeper more emotional bond between father and daughter as the play progresses. At the very beginning of the play, it is the more duty bound superficial relationship that is more clearly visible with the stress of the tie falling of "who can say they doth love us most" (1:1), and Lear's rash dismissal of Cordelia. As can often expected of drama of Shakespeare's time, the love Cordelia has for Lear "according to my bond" (1:1) is one reflective of many contemporary, paternal relationships - albeit shocking to the modern reader. Similarly, it is also possible that the same "bond" experienced by Cordelia to her Father is the limiting factor to emotion that transforms Lear into "the dragon" (1:1), with Shakespeare using animal metaphor to demonstrate the danger of Lear's wrath that led to the temporary dissolution of their relationship.

TD

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

How should I structure an A-Level answer to ensure I reach my desired mark bands?


How should I encorporate quotes into my essay?


‘Appetite – whether for power, knowledge or sex – is always a destructive force.’ In the light of this view, discuss ways in which writers present appetite. In your answer, compare one drama text and one poetry text.


How would you advise approaching an unseen piece of poetry or prose in an exam?