Dishonesty In King Lear, A Streetcar Named Desire And A Streetcar Named Desire

English Literature Coursework - Compare How Dishonesty Is Presented In ‘King Lear’, ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ and ‘The Glass Menagerie’

The theme of dishonesty reoccurs in different ways in these three different texts: ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’, ‘The Glass Menagerie’ and ‘King Lear’ and reflects the relationships between the characters, emphasises their developments and also raises the traditional concerns of the importance of truth and honesty which is still relevant in modern society. The theme of dishonesty is arguably used by Shakespeare to portray the idea that sight does not guarantee perspective, an issue pertinent to the Elizabethan audience. Arguably Tennessee Williams was concerned with dishonesty because of his personal experiences and his relationship with his father, from whom he had to hide the truth of his sexuality, and in his drama, the theme allowed him to focus on his journey to honesty with himself and others around him.

The theme of dishonesty is demonstrated from the start of ‘King Lear’ during the ‘love trial’ when Cordelia dislikes her sister’s “ponderous” words which suggest how dishonest both Goneril and Regan really are. The adjective “ponderous” determines that her love for Lear cannot be measured with words. Cordelia refuses to take part in the contest and Lear comments by saying: “so young and so untender”. The word “untender” suggests that Lear hopes for something that makes him feel valued as a king and father, however this works against him as ultimately both his other daughters better themselves by flattering themselves into trying to get the Kingdom. Arguably in this instance, flattery is a form of dishonesty and although Lear asks for it, their words begin the downward spiral of the tragedy....

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...ough dishonesty that Lear finally has an epiphany and acknowledges to himself that he is “old and foolish” when he banished Cordelia but the tragedy is that the errors of his ways comes too late. In the play, Shakespeare’s message to the audience is that being dishonest is a human trait but can lead to tragic consequences. In both Williams’ plays, the playwright uses symbolism such as a Chinese lantern and the “old dress” to present the issues of dishonesty and its aftermath. However, in contrast to Shakespeare, Williams does not give his characters an opportunity to redeem themselves of their falsifications and the audience is aware of dishonesty having a negative impact on others. Therefore, the authorial intention in all three texts is relevant today as it was in their time and presents the idea that in the long run, dishonesty does not lead to any gratification.