"In King Lear honour and loyalty triumph over brutality and viciousness." Write your response to this statement supporting your answer with suitable reference to the text. - Leaving Cert English - Question C (i) - 2010

In Shakespeare's 'King Lear', the themes of honour and loyalty significantly prevail against brutality and viciousness, leading to a complex narrative.

Analysis of Honour and Loyalty

The characters of Kent and Cordelia embody honour and loyalty, illustrating the noble traits that stand in stark contrast to the egregious actions of figures like Edmund and Lear. Kent's unwavering loyalty to King Lear, even when cast out, showcases the value of loyalty in the face of tyranny. His commitment ultimately positions him as a moral compass in the narrative.

Dramatic Irony and Consequences

Cordelia's loyalty to her father, despite Lear’s cruel banishment, portrays a poignant depth of character. Her refusal to engage in sycophantic flattery as her sisters do, emphasizes her integrity. However, this loyalty comes at a great cost, underscoring the tragic dimensions of the play.

Brutality and Viciousness

The brutality embodied by Edmund and the viciousness of Goneril and Regan highlights moral decay. Their ascent to power through treachery reflects the darker side of ambition, raising questions about the nature of power.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Shakespeare illustrates that while brutality may momentarily overshadow honour, it is loyalty and moral integrity that lead to redemption and reconciliation. The conclusion that both the honourable and the wicked can meet similar fates underscores a moral ambivalence. This complexity enriches the narrative, suggesting that honour and loyalty, while sometimes marked by tragedy, ultimately affirm value over sheer brutality.