How does Shakespeare present the theme of power in King Lear?

PlanIntro: power is something desirable and fundamental to many characters identities; but ultimately proves to be hollow, ephemeral, and destructivePoints to consider:How characters like Lear and Edmund are defined by titles; King; Bastard; how both are desperate for power; Lear to maintain power even when he divides the kingdom; Edmund to gain power after being shut out; it is an obsession for themHow they have tragic arcs which lead to both of them losing their lives and all their power despite their ambitionsContrast this with more servile characters or those shut out from power: The Fool, Kent as Caius, or Albany; how these do not attempt to gain power but to fight for principles; these offer some sort of solution; Edgar's final words; Edgar's redemptive arcConclusion: must reference how the tragic characters who desire power are still the most dramatically potent; power is destructive, but the desire for it is what drives the drama and gives force to the play; hence it does show in many ways how and why power is attractive, but also the dangers of this, which constitutes the hubris and hamartia of tragedy

SH
Answered by Solomon H. English tutor

3529 Views

See similar English A Level tutors

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explore how Beckett uses repetition in 'Waiting for Godot'.


I'm not allowed to bring books into exams, how do I learn them off by heart?


'Methinks I see these things with parted eye, when everything seems double'. To what extent does Hermia's statement at the end of Act 4 capture Shakespeare's intentions in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'?


'Until they think warm days will never cease': Discuss the ways in which Keats presents the passage of time in 'To Autumn'


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences