The Tragedy of King Lear, often shortened to King Lear, is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare. It is loosely based on the mythological Leir of Britain . King Lear, in preparation for his old age, divides his power and land between his daughters Goneril and Regan , who pay homage to gain favour, feigning love.

Lear, the aging king of Britain, decides to step down from the throne and divide his kingdom evenly among his three daughters. First, however, he puts his daughters through a test, asking each to tell him how much she loves him.

Apr 21, 2016 · King Lear dramatizes the story of an aged king of ancient Britain, whose plan to divide his kingdom among his three daughters ends tragically. When he tests each by asking how much she loves him, the older daughters, Goneril and Regan, flatter him.

Jun 2, 2023 · There is division between the Dukes, and a worse matter than that: I have received a letter this night;—’tis dangerous to be spoken;—I have locked the letter in my closet: these injuries the King now bears will be revenged home; there’s part of a power already footed: we must incline to the King.

Jan 15, 2025 · King Lear, tragedy in five acts by William Shakespeare, written in 1605–06 and published in a quarto edition in 1608, evidently based on Shakespeare’s unrevised working papers.

Jun 1, 1999 · "King Lear" by William Shakespeare is a tragedy written during the early 17th century. The play explores themes of power, family dynamics, and madness through the story of King Lear, who decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their professions of love for him.

King Lear by William Shakespeare, written around 1605-1606, stands as one of the Bard’s most tragic and profound works. Set in ancient Britain, the play tells the story of King Lear, who, in a moment of tragic folly, decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their expressions of love for him.

Summary of William Shakespeare's King Lear: King divides kingdom, snubs daughter, goes mad, there's a storm, and everyone dies.

Nov 1, 1998 · "The Tragedy of King Lear" by William Shakespeare is a classic tragedy written in the early 17th century. The play explores themes of authority, family, loyalty, and madness through the lens of a monarchy in turmoil.

Get all the key plot points of William Shakespeare's King Lear on one page. From the creators of SparkNotes.