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Give two pieces of evidence from the play to show that life is sometimes difficult for Gloucester - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2016
Question 1
Give two pieces of evidence from the play to show that life is sometimes difficult for Gloucester. (a) Do you think that Lear has a mainly positive or a mainly nega... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Give two pieces of evidence from the play to show that life is sometimes difficult for Gloucester - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2016
Step 1
Give two pieces of evidence from the play to show that life is sometimes difficult for Gloucester.
Answer
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Gloucester is deceived by his illegitimate son, Edmund, who manipulates him into believing that Edgar, his legitimate son, wants to harm him. This betrayal highlights Gloucester's gullibility and the difficulties he faces in discerning loyalty.
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Gloucester struggles with his blindness, which is both literal and metaphorical. His inability to see the truth leads him to despair, particularly when he realizes that his misjudgment has caused his rift with Edgar and his vulnerability to Edmund's scheming.
Step 2
(a) Do you think that Lear has a mainly positive or a mainly negative impact on his daughter, Cordelia? Give one reason for your answer.
Answer
Lear has a mainly negative impact on Cordelia. This is evident when he disowns her for speaking the truth about her love for him. His irrational decision to cast her aside not only causes her immense pain but also sets off a chain of tragic events in the play. Cordelia's genuine loyalty and affection for Lear contrasts sharply with the deceitful flattery from her sisters, Regan and Goneril, leading to further tragedy.
Step 3
(b) Name a character from the play that disapproves of Lear’s behaviour towards Cordelia. Explain why this character disapproves of Lear’s behaviour.
Answer
Kent is a character that disapproves of Lear’s treatment of Cordelia. He believes that Lear's decision to disown Cordelia is unjust and foolish, as it undermines the bond of love and loyalty that should exist between a father and daughter. Kent's loyalty and his protective instincts for Cordelia amplify his disapproval, as he understands that Lear's misguided actions will lead to dire consequences for all involved.