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1. (a) Describe an occasion from the text when Gloucester’s illegitimate son, Edmund, behaves badly towards his father - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2018
Question 1
1. (a) Describe an occasion from the text when Gloucester’s illegitimate son, Edmund, behaves badly towards his father. (b) In your opinion, does Edmund generally b... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1. (a) Describe an occasion from the text when Gloucester’s illegitimate son, Edmund, behaves badly towards his father - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2018
Step 1
Describe an occasion from the text when Gloucester’s illegitimate son, Edmund, behaves badly towards his father.
Answer
In Act I, Scene 2 of King Lear, Edmund deceives his father, Gloucester, by convincing him that his legitimate son, Edgar, is plotting against him. He betrays Edgar's trust, ultimately leading to Edgar fleeing the court. This occasion exemplifies Edmund's manipulative nature, demonstrating how he exploits his father’s blindness to loyalty and truth. By fabricating a story about Edgar, he successfully positions himself as the favored son in Gloucester’s eyes, showcasing his malicious ambition and desire for power. This incident serves as a pivotal moment, setting the stage for the ensuing betrayal and chaos within the family.
Step 2
In your opinion, does Edmund generally behave badly towards his father? Explain your answer with reference to the text.
Answer
Yes, Edmund consistently behaves badly towards Gloucester throughout the play. He undermines his father by questioning his judgment and loyalty. For instance, in Act I, Scene 2, he uses the power of suggestion to make Gloucester suspicious of Edgar, leading to familial discord. Furthermore, he often refers to Gloucester with contempt, reducing him to a mere pawn in his schemes. Edmund's actions reveal a deep-seated resentment and ambition that cloud his moral judgment, demonstrating that he values personal gain over familial loyalty.
Step 3
Identify a moment in the play, King Lear, which you find particularly dramatic or exciting. Explain what makes this moment so dramatic or exciting.
Answer
One particularly dramatic moment in King Lear occurs in Act III, Scene 2, during the storm scene. Lear stands in the howling wind and rain, shouting out his anguish and despair. This moment is heightened by the natural elements reflecting Lear’s internal chaos and madness as he grapples with betrayal and loss. The storm serves as a metaphor for his tumultuous emotional state, providing a powerful visual and auditory backdrop that amplifies the tension. The imagery of nature mirroring Lear's suffering makes this scene profoundly impactful, as it illustrates the king’s descent into madness while evoking sympathy from the audience.
Step 4
Write about the importance of either loyalty or betrayal in the play, King Lear. Support your response with reference to the text.
Answer
Loyalty and betrayal are crucial themes in King Lear, shaping the fates of its characters. Loyalty is epitomized by Kent and Cordelia, who remain steadfastly true to Lear despite his foolishness. For instance, Cordelia’s rejection of sycophantic flattery reveals her genuine love and loyalty toward her father, contrasting sharply with Goneril and Regan's treachery. Conversely, betrayal manifests in Edmund's deceit, Edgar's manipulation, and Lear’s misguided trust in his elder daughters. The repercussions of these betrayals highlight the destructive power of ambition and disloyalty, showcasing that true loyalty is often met with harsh consequences in a world fraught with betrayal.
Step 5
From the list below, choose the phrase or phrases that best describe(s) your overall response to the play, King Lear:
Answer
I found the play entertaining and I found the play disturbing. While the richness of Shakespeare's language and character development provides an engaging and entertaining narrative, the tragic outcomes and moral dilemmas evoke a sense of disturbance that lingers long after reading. The intertwining of entertainment and discomfort is what makes King Lear a masterpiece, demonstrating Shakespeare’s ability to provoke thought and reflection through drama.
Step 6
You have been asked to show your class three objects that you think help to reveal something about the life or personality of one of the following characters from the play, King Lear: Cordelia or Kent.
Answer
For Cordelia, I would select a crown, a sword, and a letter. The crown symbolizes her royal heritage and rightful claim to love and power, contrasting with Lear’s misjudgment. The sword represents her strength and willingness to defend her beliefs against injustice, particularly when confronting her father's folly. Lastly, a letter signifies her loyalty and determination to communicate her love to Lear, showcasing her character's depth and unwavering commitment to family despite the challenges she faces. Each object reveals multifaceted aspects of Cordelia’s identity and role within the play.