To what extent are Lear and Cordelia responsible for the tragic end of their life?

Answer

To what extent are Lear and Cordelia responsible for the tragic end of their lives? (2017) 

“King Lear” (1605–1606) is one of the most famous tragedies in English literature, written by William Shakespeare (1564–1616). The play illustrates how pride, misunderstanding, and fate can lead to sorrow. Both Lear and Cordelia suffer a tragic death at the end. Their downfall is not caused by evil alone but also by their own mistakes. Lear’s pride and Cordelia’s silence together shape their fate. Still, they are more victims of others’ cruelty than of their own faults. Their deaths make the tragedy deeply human and emotional.

Lear’s Pride and Vanity: Lear’s pride is the first cause of his ruin. He divides his kingdom among his daughters based on flattery. When Cordelia refuses to praise him falsely, he cries, 

“Nothing will come of nothing.” 

He disowns her in anger. This act shows his blindness and foolishness. Lear cannot bear the truth spoken with honesty. His ego drives him to wrong decisions. By giving power to Goneril and Regan, he brings destruction on himself. His proud nature makes him partly responsible for his tragic end.

Lear’s Blindness and Error: Lear’s tragedy grows from his blindness to real love. He trusts false words and rejects true affection. Kent warns him, but Lear says, 

“Peace, Kent! Come not between the dragon and his wrath.” 

The audience sees that he confuses power with love. He fails to see that Goneril and Regan love his throne, not him. His blindness leads to betrayal, madness, and grief. Lear’s inability to judge people correctly makes his suffering unavoidable. His own actions prepare the ground for his fall.

Cordelia’s Silence and Honesty: Cordelia is pure and loving but not wise in speech. She says:

“I love Your Majesty 

According to my bond, no more nor less.” 

Her short answer hurts her father’s pride. She could have spoken