Primary Characters in King Lear
King Lear
The titular character and tragic hero of the play, Lear begins as the powerful King of Britain who fatally decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their professions of love.
ExampleLear's fatal flaw is evident in the opening scene:
"Which of you shall we say doth love us most, That we our largest bounty may extend"
Key characteristics:
- Proud and rash in judgment
- Initially unable to distinguish between genuine love and flattery
- Experiences a profound journey from power to madness to wisdom
- Shows remarkable character development through suffering
Lear's transformation from a proud king to a humbled man who learns true love and self-knowledge is central to the play's tragic arc.
Cordelia
Lear's youngest and most beloved daughter, representing truth and genuine love.
Key traits:
- Honest and principled
- Refuses to participate in false flattery
- Embodies genuine filial love
Her honest response to Lear's love test:
"I love your majesty According to my bond, no more nor less"
Goneril and Regan
Lear's elder daughters who represent corruption, ambition, and false love.
Shared characteristics:
- Manipulative and deceitful
- Power-hungry
- Cruel to their father after gaining power
