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King Lear

In: English and Literature

Submitted By pavithbaskaran
Words 721
Pages 3
Pavith Baskaran
Ms. Marsh
ENG 4U1
September 26 2011
Sanity in the Face of Relativity In our customary everyday lives, and by having a religious and ethical lifestyle, one is required by humanity to display socially acceptable qualities of sanity. Sanity is the ability to think and behave in a normal rational manner, and to exhibit rational behaviour. In Shakespeare’s play “King Lear” however, it is shown that “sanity” is a relative concept that can vary in meaning. Relating to the outside world, utilizing present issues of many countries, sanity being based on relativity, can be greatly exemplified. By performing an in depth analysis of different perspectives on sanity, it can be revealed who is sane and who is not. In the dramatic play, “King Lear”, King Lear assumes that his own character completely mirrors the quality of sanity. Displaying sane characteristics requires one to be completely assertive of the decisions that one makes personally, Lear’s actions are consciously made by him, and he knows exactly what he wants to say. He decides to divide his own kingdom and properties, and he wishes all three of his daughters to express their love for him. While Goneril and Regan claim their (faux) admiration of their father Lear is tremendous, Cordelia expressed nothing but her own genuine feelings. Unable to either express or translate her feelings into words, Cordelia explains to Lear that she is unable to verbally profess her love. In reply, Lear bursts with cursing prayers, “Let it be so. Thy truth then be thy dower. For by the sacred radiance of the sun, The mysteries of Hecate and the night... Here I disclaim all my paternal care... As thou my sometime daughter”. (I, i, 110-120) Lear shows complete disregard for Cordelia’s feelings, and continues expressing his vitriol. Relativity now comes into play, as from in Lear’s point of view; he surmises that his

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