"King Lear"

Paper Summary:

Edmund, the illegitimate son of the Earl of Gloucester, is at the center of many of the horrific events in "King Lear" by William Shakespeare. The paper shows that his actions are motivated by the circumstances of his birth, as both illegitimate and younger than his brother Edgar, Edmund is unlikely to ever have the power and influence his father enjoys. The paper shows that he is the "unholy" son, the one that will never be fully accepted by society. The paper explores how the economic and social consequences of Edmund's birth shape his personality and behavior.

From the Paper:

"Edmund's knowledge of and exposure to circles of power and influence has only whetted his appetite for the title, wealth and power that legally must go to Edgar. Edmund plots to usurp his brother's birthright for himself. He goes about this logically and calmly. Quoting Edmund, William J. Bennett (1998) points out that although in this age of science and research we have many explanations for why people act as they do, Edmund scorned making excuses for his behavior (Bennett, 1998). Edmund is remarkably frank and honest about himself. He says he does not mind being a bastard, because it allows him to maneuver outside society's rules."

More papers on "King Lear":

• Analytical Essay # 119804 : "The Destruction of the Body Politic in "King Lear"
• Persuasive Essay # 142304 : "Editing King Lear"
• Analytical Essay # 36062 : "King Lear"
• Analytical Essay # 4576 : "Madness in "King Lear"

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