Consequences of Actions in Shakespeares King Lear :: King Lear essays

Consequences of Actions in Shakespeargons queen Lear King Lear is a pure(a) demonstration of the great consequences unitary mans actions can cause. While there are certainly religious Christian elements to the story, the story is not one of pietism or hope. King Lear is a lesson, making an example of what can sustain of a angiotensin converting enzyme, inconclusive, egotistical action. King Lears action is the surrendering of his throne to his daughters. The element of Christianity enters here, because King is a God-appointed position, not to be given up. Lear, however, decides to disregard this fact, instead cerebrate on the immediate gratification he will receive from his daughters, and boosting his self-assertion while making him feel loved. Lear essentially offers his land and power for love, Which of you shall we hypothecate doth love us most? That we our largest bounty may extend where nature doth with merit challenge, forgoing his God-given position and rights. Next enters the punishment, seemingly brought about by God. Because Lear has disregarded Gods wishes, he is made to suffer insanity and excruciating carnal torment. Lear is even given multiple opportunities to revoke his decision, but rather than concern the advice of those trying to help him, he banishes them for questioning his selfish decision. This leaves Lear surrounded by the people looking only to better themselves by using the straight vulnerable Lear. Lear is estranged from his kingdom and friends, causing his loss of sanity. In the midst of Lears self-pity he is discovered by the fool. Fittingly enough the fool is the one able to lead Lear back to the normal world. He is made to hold the people who truly cared about him from the beginning. He sees that they were right all along, and repents from his foolish decision, though its too late to do him any good. Once more, the consequences of Lears single sin are felt. In a typically Christian or hopeful ending, King Lear would learn to listen to the caring friends he has, and endure less selfish. Shakespeare, however, chooses not to end it so predictably or simply. as yet after all of Lears suffering and repenting, he continues to receive punishment. Cordelia, who he has at one time realized truly loved him most, is killed. Lear is left feeling hopeless, saying, I see when one is dead, and when one lives. Shes dead as earth, which seems slightly to refer to his straightway cynical view of the earth.