A comparative analysis of the theme of self-knowledge and its role in the downfall of the tragic hero, as shown in William Shakespeare's "King Lear" and Christopher Marlowe's "Dr. Faustus".
Written in 1995; 1,628 words; 4 sources; APA; $ 53.95
Paper Summary:
This paper examines the ways in which the protagonists Lear and Faustus display a lack of self-knowledge in William Shakespeare's "King Lear" and Christopher Marlowe's "Dr. Faustus". It looks at how it contributes to their eventual downfall and provides a discussion of the characters who exist to help increase the self-knowlege of the protagonists in both plays. It also shows how insight through blindness and clarity through madness are barriers to self-awareness in both plays and how lack of self-knowledge is the "fatal flaw" in both Lear and Faustus's characters.
From the Paper:
"Although both characters start off with certain shared ideals, (i.e. a respect for position and wealth), by the middle of both plays we see a divergence: Lear's character has reached a crisis point which eventually leads to the development of his character, whilst Faustus continues to disbelieve what is obvious to the reader or the audience - that he is damned and must repent- instead continuing with his stubborn arrogance; "What God can hurt thee, Faustus" Thou art safe.? "
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