How is Cordelia presented in King Lear?
Cordelia is initially presented as defiant in King Lear. This is evident when Cordelia refuses to flatter Lear when he conducts a love test to determine who receives what part of his kingdom, instead choosing to "Love, and be silent." A feminist interpretation of this act explains that Cordelia refuses to conform to male patriarchy and by refusing to participate, she establishes herself as a model of virtue. Yet paradoxically, by choosing to remain silent, Cordelia acts as a prototype 'Shakespearian woman' who does not speak her mind. Indeed, Benjamin Donat Rubio argues that Cordelia is characterised by her silent and obedient attitude.
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