The eldest, Goneril, speaks first, declaring her love for her father in fulsome terms. King Lear of Britain, elderly and wanting to retire from the duties of the monarchy, decides to divide his realm among his three daughters, and declares he will offer the largest share to the one who loves him most. The play was often revised after the English Restoration for audiences who disliked its dark and depressing tone, but since the 19th century Shakespeare's original play has been regarded as one of his supreme achievements.īoth the title role and the supporting roles have been coveted by accomplished actors, and the play has been widely adapted.Ĭordelia in the Court of King Lear (1873) by Sir John Gilbert The quarto versions differ significantly from the folio version. The three extant publications from which modern editors derive their texts are the 1608 quarto (Q1) and the 1619 quarto (Q2, unofficial and based on Q1) and the 1623 First Folio. The first known performance of any version of Shakespeare's play was on St. He becomes destitute and insane and a proscribed crux of political machinations. King Lear, in preparation for his old age, divides his power and land between two of his daughters. It is based on the mythological Leir of Britain. King Lear is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |