Juxtaposition In King Lear

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Michael Vu Mrs. Soukup – Block 1 AP English Literature & Composition April 11th, 2014 2005, Form B AP Literature Essay for King Lear William Shakespeare devised Edmund as an ambitious character that seeks power over others within his tragedy King Lear. Tainted by his illegitimacy, Edmund must rise to power through his own capabilities and intellect rather than inheritance. However, his drive for power leads him toward corruption as he commits treachery to both his father and brother. Shakespeare demonstrates the problem society has with those who seek power as a means for retribution. Edmund believes in the idea of natural law as a way to attain power; in fact, the Nature to which Edmund is appealing is human nature, where desire is the driving force behind all action. Shakespeare creates a tragic tone through characterization and juxtaposition. He defines natural law and set it apart from social law, but Edmund mistakes one for the other and falls from power, revealing his hamartia. Shakespeare establishes Edmund’s motives by highlighting his bastardry. Both of Gloucester’s sons ...

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