Lear's Descent Into Madness and Subsequent Redemption

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Despite Lear’s descent into madness, he displays many signs of his own redemption in Act 1. Most of the evidence is contained in what Lear says and does, but there are subtle moments of revelation by other characters towards Lear’s mental state. Lear’s complex mind begins to unravel due to his age and the treatment he experiences from his daughters, but his character and the undeserved goodness he receives from other characters are what point him towards his own redemption. The underlying irony of the act is that the fool appears to be the most perceptive character, while the supposedly wise characters are acting like fools. From the opening lines, with the vulgar conversation between Kent and Gloucester, there is an indication that something is wrong in the kingdom because the king’s two most important advisors are speaking so coarsely. The state of the kingdom can be viewed as a parallel to the state of Lear’s mind, with both progressively getting worse. Lear’s division of the kingdom parallels the divisions in his head, with reality and illusion becoming intertwined in his head. The confusion and unhappiness of the people over their rulers illustrate Lear’s confusion, all signs which point towards his madness. Lear’s impending madness stands out in this act, but the evidence towards his redemption is overwhelming when carefully viewed.

A careful analysis on Lear’s descent into madness must be made to properly view signs of his redemption. The opening to the play is the first sign of trouble in the kingdom: the vile conversation between the noblemen Kent and Gloucester foreshadow that something is wrong in the kingdom. Upon first meeting Lear, it can be agreed that he is old and ready to die and he just wants to give his da...

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...ious acts when he was younger and wiser may also have inspired this loyalty in Kent. Respect must be earned, and Lear earned respect from his courtiers over a lifetime of leadership. The fact that he is still respected by his soldiers and people indicate that he is not lost yet. He is sane and can rationalize and speak normally. It is circumstances that force him to change. Lear even expresses a desire to avoid madness in Scene 5 by appealing to the heavens. It is clear that Lear is not completely mad because he still possesses some rational qualities which speak out for his redemption.

There is a conflicting message of Lear’s sanity versus his madness, which may only be fully revealed by the end of the play. Many signs point towards his madness, but a few point towards his sanity. His path to redemption remains intact as long as he possesses these qualities.

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