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Death, madness and fear- Shakespeares best

I studied this play years ago for A-level and even flogging its themes and plot to death didnt detract from its brilliance. Taking away its dubious misogynies (which, of course, are a sign of the time it was written) we are left with a work of brilliance. The pain Lear goes through to be betrayed by two of his daughters after his own lack of foresight is heartbreaking- as is the climax. This is a truly dark and disturbing work but never was Shakespeare so powerful and provocative in his treatment of realtionships and human evil. Read it, watch it or act it- and shudder

Powerful and Everlasting

The tale of Lears betrayal by his family and subsequent tragic descent into madness is powerfully gripping. Shakespeare keeps the plot simple, but ensures that the undertones are remarkably complex. In Lears most poignant speech, when he begins the journey to insanity, he demands that we "allow not nature more than nature needs" and forewarns that his heart will "break into a hundred thousand flaws". These predictions unfold in vivid and dramatic style throughout a play laced with reference to natures omnipotence. The ending shatters your heart.

Amazingly Tragic!

I am not an intellectual by no means. I am just a regular young adult studying A Level English Literature, so when told I would be studying King Lear, probably the most dark and tragic of all Shakepeares plays, you can imagine.... I paniced!! I saw a video version of King Lear and read the play in progression to the video. It is a fantastic play that kept me intrigued the whole way through. Yes, ok, this can be quite a heavy going play; It certainly makes you wonder about the purpose of life, but let me tell you, I dont think you would regret reading it. Even if your afraid you wont understand, this version comes with a few notes guiding you through any bits that may cause problems. Go on, read this play. Its amazingly tragic!!