King Lear Betrayal Analysis

In the play, King Lear, the concept of betrayal leads to ultimate despair and the downfall of characters. Multiple forms of betrayal are displayed in the text. These betrayals in the play lead to agony and misfortune. Through these acts, it is shown that betrayal leads to death. The treasonous actions of Goneril and Regan contribute to pushing their father to madness. The confessing of fake love to their father manipulate Lear into believing he has their undecided affection and trust. Lear seems to value a public exhibition of love rather than cheering the actual meaning. This notion clouds the judgement of Lear and places his mind in uncertainty. The supporters of Lear who truly show devotion and compassion for the King are now not recognized …show more content…
Cordelia’s true devotion to her father is displayed when she claims, “You have begot me, bred me, loved me. I return those duties as are right fit: Obey you love you, and most honor you” (Shakespeare 13). Cordelia appears to truly value the attention and love her father has shown her. Portraying a false love to the king only to conspire against him later in the play seems inhumane to her. She will not give in to partaking in the lavish speech giving done by her two older sisters. Lear’s inability to recognize Cordelia’s true love causes him to cast her aside and label her the retched one. This contributes to the eventual madness of Lear. When Lear seems to have reached his breaking point, Cordelia is the sole daughter to rush to his aid. This concept speaks to the maturity and integrity of Cordelia. Even after her father has banished her from his kingdom, she is able to see past his previous mistakes and still shows unshaken love toward in father in his time of need. Lear’s desperation for attention is only addressed by her and would have continued if Cordelia did not intervene. The selfishness of Lear interfere with his rational judgment and cause him to place trust in the two daughters who also have selfish intentions. Lear’s recognition of his previous mistakes and how he has lost his sanity is made evident when he claims, “I am a very foolish fond old man, Fourscore and upward, not an hour more nor less, And to deal plainly, I fear I am not in my perfect mind. Methinks I should know you and know this man, Yet I am doubtful, for I am mainly ignorant”(221). Only after Goneril and Regan have taken their toll on the former king is Lear able to realize his wrong doings. The daughters have pushed their father to his insane state. Lear has not a single individual to blame but himself. The wish for public