... attempt to universalize the travesties endured by the protagonist and tragic hero, Shakespeare incorporates a significant subplot into King Lear. Although the focus clearly lies on the tragic plight of King Lear, the secondary plot involving Gloucester and his offspring mirrors and dramatizes Lear's hopeless situation. Both Lear and Gloucester misjudge their offspring and respond rashly to inaccurate information; the subsequent rejection of those closest to ... her father, Cordelia can only say that, "Unhappy that I am, I cannot heave/My heart into my mouth. I love your majesty/According...

• Word Count: 1594
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

Nature, as a word, has many different associations, many of which are explored in King Lear. The Jacobean audiences watching the play would have known of, and possibilities believed in, herbal remedies, or the curing (Cordelia's medicines) and ... world. Humans build on their natural foundation, adding luxuries but also unseen laws such as hierarchy and society morals. Shakespeare also appears to criticise hierarchy, as Lear says, "Through tattered clothes great vices do appear; Robes and furred gowns hide all"; if people are high status, does this automatically mean they are ... just granted...

• Word Count: 991
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: Undergraduate