Kent and The Fool in King Lear Essay

Kent is one of the best loved characters in Shakespeare and the Fool is one of Shakespeares triumphs in King Lear. Explore fully the dramatic characterization of these two and the use the playwright makes of them in highlighting the ideal of Faithful Devoted Love.

In this tragic, comical play by Shakespeare, King Lear is portrayed as the tired ruler of England, his plan to divide his kingdom between his three daughters and then place his welfare in their trust, leads to his humiliation and total loss of power at the hands of his cruel daughters, Regan and Goneril. He misjudges all those around him in the first act, banishing those who care for him the most, which included Kent and Cordelia, whilst rewarding those whose kind words prove false. Only after enduring multiple humiliations and betrayals, Lear regained true wisdom and insight, only to die soon thereafter.

Kent was one on Lears faithful servants. Throughout the play he disguised himself as a peasant, calling himself Caius, so that he can continue to serve Lear even after Lear had banished him. He is extremely loyal, but he gets himself into trouble throughout the play by being extremely blunt and outspoken. He was questioned by Lear about his identity and intent, his hypocrite actions of loyalty and willingness to serve Lear was well appreciated.

Also of great recognition is the Fool, who is perhaps the most intriguing character in this play because he is always equally obvious, and comical in his speech. When the fool entered the play for the first time, he functioned much as a Chorus would in a Greek tragedy: His role is to comment on events and the kings actions, serving in some respects as the kings conscience. The Fool requires a careful study, because he often sounds cruel as he addresses the king with sarcasm and irony.

Sometimes, the Fool seems to be rubbing salt in Lears wounds, rather than acting as the kings advocate. However, as the play progresses, it becomes more obvious how much the Fool loves the king; and he will try to protect and care for Lear just as Cordelia attempts to do when she returns.

The Fool also demonstrates to Lear the truths about people around him, and he also tried to point out the treachery and deceit they wished upon him. Before the Fools arrival it is clear that Lear was showing signs of insanity by dividing up his kingdom. He also proved his insanity by not trusting his only daughter Cordelia, who truly loved him.

Meantime we shall express our or darker purpose.

Give me the map there. Know, that we have divided

In three our Kingdom: and tis our fast intent,

To shake all cares and business from our age (Act 1. Scene1. (12-15)

Throughout the entire play, the fool serves to show Lear repeatedly that he is going insane. He tried on many occasions to point out Lears insane actions and he also tried to delay Lears insanity as much as he can. However, he does not directly tell Lear that he is going insane, rather he spoke in parables.

Then I prithee be merry, thy wit shall not go slip-shod(Shakespeare 52)

Mark it nuncle;

Have more than thou showest,

Speak less than thou knowest,

Lend less than thou owest,

Ride more than thou goest,

Learn more than thou trowest; (Skakespeare 44. 1-6)

Once again, in (Act 3. Scene 2) it is clearly observant how Lear copes with the swell of problems besieging him. The scene opens on Lear in the midst of wind, rain, and personal despair. When the storm was near approaching, Lears mood matches the intensity of natures turbulence as he rages against his daughters abusive treatment. The Fool attempts to reason with his king, noting that the shelter of a dry house is better than the rain out doors.

O nuncle, Court holy-water in a dry house, is better