LEC052024. Jesly Sebastian. Significance and Critical Analysis of Lear's Madness in King Lear.
What is the significance of the reference to Lear's madness in King Lear ? 1.Shakespeare has portrayed madness as a driving force that leads to the various situations in the play. 2.From the opening scene itself, Lear is in a state of mental disturbance which leads him to divide his kingdom, disown Cordelia and banish Kent. 3.Lear’s madness is further worsened by the ill-treatment he receives from his daughters Regan and Goneril. 4.Madness often becomes a solace for Lear in his helplessness. It saves him from deep agony at the worst of his times. 5.To the end the madness leads him to Cordelia and her care. But as he returns to his senses he has already lost so much that he held dear. Critically discuss the significance of the reference to Lear's madness in King Lear. Draft 1 Lear’s lack of judgement or his tragic flow made him mad. His madness helped him to gain pity from other characters and audience. The fool tries to advice the mad king by imitating his madness. Madness...