Sketch the character of Lear as a father

Answer

Sketch the character of Lear as a father. (2014, 2018) ✪✪✪

Or, “Lear is a foolish fond old man who deserves everything he gets”- Discuss. (2016) 

“King Lear” (1605–1606) is one of the greatest tragedies in English literature, written by William Shakespeare (1564–1616). The play shows the fall and redemption of an old father. Lear, the king of Britain, is not only a ruler but also the father of three daughters: Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia. His mistakes as a father bring pain and destruction. He loves deeply but without wisdom. His blindness to true love and his pride cause his downfall. Lear’s story is both personal and universal, a lesson for all parents.

Fond but Foolish Father: Lear begins as a loving but foolish father. He wants to divide his kingdom among his daughters. To test their love, he asks each to declare how much they love him. Cordelia refuses to flatter him and says, 

“I love your Majesty

According to my bond, no more nor less.” 

Lear misunderstands her honesty and becomes angry. He curses and disowns her. His fondness turns into foolish pride. This error shows his weak judgment as a father. His love is deep, but it is also mixed with vanity and ego.

Blind to True Love: Lear’s most significant fault is his blindness to truth. He believes the false flattery of Goneril and Regan but rejects Cordelia’s silent truth. He cannot see who truly loves him. The Fool and Kent try to warn him, but he refuses to listen. Soon, he faces betrayal from the daughters he trusted most. His blindness leads to pain, madness, and loss. The father who could not judge love must now learn through suffering. This blindness gives the play its tragic power.

Victim of Ingratitude: As a father, Lear becomes a victim of his daughters’ cruelty. Goneril and Regan insult him after gaining power. Goneril cuts down his followers and says he no longer needs so many knights.