A character´s true self is often revealed as an outcome of their innate desire to succeed. The arrogance that is prevalent within the protagonists of various works of literature drive them to surround themselves with people that strengthen their sense of superiority, creating the illusion that they are successful. Consequently, these characters´ blinding ambition inspires them to ignore honest criticism, ultimately bringing about their downfall.
The ambitious drive to maintain power and wealth is clearly exemplified by King Lear in Shakespeare's play, The Tragedy of King Lear. He gives into the manipulative flattery employed by his eldest daughters in attempt to elevate his kingly ego. Cordelia, however, does not take advantage of her father by resorting to insincerity, and …show more content…
The extent of his self-admiration runs so deep that he dismisses Cordelia from being his daughter, claiming that she is ¨a stranger to [his] heart and [him] (Shakespeare 1.1 127).¨ A loyal friend, Kent, suffered the same fate after suggesting that Lear ¨check his hideous rashness (Shakespeare 1.1 169-170),¨ leaving him without any faithful companions, and surrounded by sycophants. Accordingly, the lack of trustworthy associates, who previously kept him grounded, unleashed a frenzy of impulsive decision-making in pursuit of maintaining power. Goneril and Regan met his inconvenient
The ambitious drive to maintain power and wealth is clearly exemplified by King Lear in Shakespeare's play, The Tragedy of King Lear. He gives into the manipulative flattery employed by his eldest daughters in attempt to elevate his kingly ego. Cordelia, however, does not take advantage of her father by resorting to insincerity, and …show more content…
The extent of his self-admiration runs so deep that he dismisses Cordelia from being his daughter, claiming that she is ¨a stranger to [his] heart and [him] (Shakespeare 1.1 127).¨ A loyal friend, Kent, suffered the same fate after suggesting that Lear ¨check his hideous rashness (Shakespeare 1.1 169-170),¨ leaving him without any faithful companions, and surrounded by sycophants. Accordingly, the lack of trustworthy associates, who previously kept him grounded, unleashed a frenzy of impulsive decision-making in pursuit of maintaining power. Goneril and Regan met his inconvenient