Regan

Regan, Middle Daughter of King Lear

Regan, King Lear's middle daughter, is a significant antagonist in the play. Her cruelty and ambition mirror those of her sister Goneril, contributing to the play's tragic events.

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Background and Context

Like Goneril, Regan deceitfully professes her love for Lear to gain a share of his kingdom. Once in power, she joins forces with Goneril and Edmund to further their own interests, showing little regard for family loyalty or morality.

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Personality Traits

Regan is manipulative, sadistic, and power-driven. Her actions reveal a deep-seated ruthlessness, as she is willing to inflict pain and suffering on others, including her own father and her husband, to secure her position and power.

Regan to Cornwall about Lear: "O, sir, to wilful men,/ The injuries that they themselves procure/ Must be their schoolmasters. Shut up your doors:/ He is attended with a desperate train,/ And what they may incense him to, being apt/ To have his ear abused, wisdom bids fear."

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Internal Conflict

Regan's internal conflict is minimal, as a desire for power and control primarily drives her actions. Her occasional jealousy towards Goneril over Edmund's affection highlights her competitive nature, but she remains focused on her ultimate goal of dominance.

Regan to Lear about Goneril: "I am made of that self mettle as my sister, / And prize me at her worth."

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Relationships

Regan's relationships are characterised by betrayal and self-interest. She turns against Lear after gaining power, showing him no compassion. Her alliance with Goneril is temporary and self-serving, eventually leading to rivalry. Her attraction to Edmund adds another layer of treachery, contributing to her husband Cornwall's violent acts and furthering her own ambitions.

Regan to Lear: "I pray you, father, being weak, seem so."

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Tragic Flaw

Regan's tragic flaw is her unbridled ambition and cruelty. Her involvement in brutal acts, such as the blinding of Gloucester, and her relentless pursuit of power lead to her demise.

Regan about Gloucester: "Go thrust him out at gates, and let him smell His way to Dover."

Poisoned by Goneril out of jealousy, Regan's ruthless behaviour ultimately causes her own downfall and adds to the play's tragic end.

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