‘King Lear is a play which brings us closer to the apocalypse than to resolution’ Discuss

(I think essay plans are the most effective)First consider if you agree with the statement.Apocalypse is shown through the collapse of justice. This is exemplified through King Lear's actions (love test etc), and also in society (beggars)Furthermore, the deaths of wholly just characters such as cordelia and kent seem to indicate a total lack of resolution. However there is indeed evidence of resolution in the Edgar/Gloucester subplot, as Shakespeare provides us with a glimmer of hope in Edgar's final lines as he assumes leadership, Edmund is avenged and the conflict between father and son is resolved. Therefore we can conclude that Shakespeare purposefully creates a conflicting sense of resolution and apocalypse to emphasise the dangers of a despotic monarch, and how it is pratically impossible to wholly mend a severed state.

ZM
Answered by Zara M. English Literature tutor

3913 Views

See similar English Literature A Level tutors

Related English Literature A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can we define 'literature' - what differentiates the Yellow Pages from James Joyce's Ulysses as 'literary' texts?


Compare how the authors of two texts you have studied present barriers to love.


How do I approach an unseen poem in an exam?


How should I approach comparing poetry, prose and drama within one essay?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences