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In the opening scene of the play Lear says: "Tell me, my daughters,… Which of you shall we say doth love us most…?" (a) Describe King Lear’s reaction when Cordelia refused to take part in the Love Test he organised for his daughters at the start of the play - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2006
Question 1
In the opening scene of the play Lear says: "Tell me, my daughters,… Which of you shall we say doth love us most…?" (a) Describe King Lear’s reaction when Cordelia... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In the opening scene of the play Lear says: "Tell me, my daughters,… Which of you shall we say doth love us most…?" (a) Describe King Lear’s reaction when Cordelia refused to take part in the Love Test he organised for his daughters at the start of the play - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2006
Step 1
Describe King Lear’s reaction when Cordelia refused to take part in the Love Test
Answer
In the opening scene, King Lear is visibly angered and shocked by Cordelia’s refusal to engage in the Love Test. He had intended for his daughters to profess their love for him in a calculated manner, which he believed would solidify his power and ensure his place in their futures. Lear flies into a rage when Cordelia, the daughter he favored, does not comply. He disinherits her, demonstrating his authoritarian tendencies and inability to recognize genuine love over superficial flattery.
Lear's reaction can be characterized as impulsive and dismissive; he perceives Cordelia’s honesty and integrity as a betrayal. He accuses her of being ungrateful and fails to understand her motivations, highlighting his tragic flaws. This sets into motion the major themes of misjudgment and harsh consequences that echo throughout the play.
Step 2
In your opinion did Cordelia do the right thing in refusing to take part? Explain your view
Answer
Cordelia's decision to refuse participation in the Love Test can be seen as the embodiment of her integrity and genuine love for her father. By rejecting the contest of flattery, she stands up for her belief that love cannot be measured by grand declarations or material gains. Her honesty, although detrimental at the moment, ultimately reflects a deeper understanding of true familial bonds.
In my opinion, Cordelia did the right thing as it illustrates her character's moral strength and sets her apart from her sisters, who resort to deceit for personal gain. This path of integrity, though painful, positions her as a figure of loyalty in a world filled with treachery. Thus, her refusal can be interpreted not just as a personal conviction but also as a critique of Lear's misguided values.
Overall, Cordelia’s actions serve as an important commentary on the nature of love and duty, foreshadowing the tragic unraveling of Lear's kingdom.
Step 3
Apart from the Love Test, what do you think was the most important moment in the play?
Answer
One of the most pivotal moments in 'King Lear' occurs in Act 3, Scene 2, during the storm. This scene symbolizes Lear's internal turmoil and the chaotic consequences of his earlier decisions. As Lear grapples with the fury of the elements, he also confronts the madness that has begun to consume him, representing the externalization of his inner conflict.
Lear's moment in the storm is marked by his acknowledgment of vulnerability and the fragility of human existence. It epitomizes the broader themes of madness, isolation, and the loss of power. This scene serves not only as a turning point for Lear’s character but also emphasizes the play's exploration of human suffering and the quest for understanding amidst chaos.
Furthermore, the storm clears the path for the eventual reconciliation between Lear and Cordelia, underscoring how great turmoil can lead to self-discovery. Thus, this moment stands out as both a personal and thematic watershed in the narrative.