King Lear Journal #4

"This seems a fair deserving, and must draw me

That which my father loses -- no less than all.

The younger rises when the old doth fall." (3.3.23-25)

This passage by itself shows that when the old lose something, it is usually falls to the young. In the context of the play this passage shows that Edmund now plans to get rid of his father as well and take his place as ruler. This highlights on the idea that the children in the play are often taking power away from there fathers. This is show in the beginning with King Lear, although it is voluntary it is still that passing of power. I personally think this passage shows the eagerness of the young to take away power, not realizing the responsibility that comes along with it. The young people in situation like this often think of power as a trophy or something like wealth that is meant to be accumulated and horded.

King Lear Journal # 3

I am tracking the insecurity of old age. This really only relates to Lear himself since there are not any other old people in the play. Lear is obviously concerned that as he grows old, people will no longer respect him. "'tis our fast intent to shake all cares and business from our age" (1.1.40-41)
In this passage, Lear acknowledges that he is old and that because of this he is giving up his land to his daughters. This however proves not to be a sign of acceptance because he does not give up his power, only his responsibly. This shows that he is unwilling to let go of his power, even when his old age demands it. Later, Lear's daughter Goneril comments on her fathers age, "You see how full of changes his age is...what poor judgment he hath now cast."(1.1.334-337) In this passage Goneril show how people are aware of the Kings deteriorated state and shows that he has lost the respect he once had.

King Lear Journal # 2

The role of the fool in King Lear is to be someone who continually points out Lear's shortcomings. He is not the only one who does this but unlike the others he does not incur Lear's rath. The reason for this is not all clear but most likely it is because he uses a very poetic and comedic tone which Lear seems not to take seriously. The fools also acts as the chorus in the way he speaks and acts. The fool is also one of the few characters who's life is not directly effected by the events in the play. He does not appear to be emotionally involved and this makes the audience trust him more.

King Lear Journal # 1

The speeches given by the three sisters in Act 1 Sc 1 tell a lot about their personalities. King Lear demands that in order to receive a part of his kingdom as a dower. Goneril is the first to speak and tells him that she loves him "Dearer than eyesight, space and liberty" (1.1.62). These words, although powerful sound empty because she has been commanded to do it. Regan is next and mimics her sister and ventures to say that her love is even greater. The idea that someone can prove through words who's love is greater if foolish and the fact that Lear treats their empty words as gospel shows that he is deluded. Finally when Cordelia is asked to speak she refuses to follow the path of her sisters. She instead tries to point out that no matter what words she used to describe her love, it is meaningless.