Cordelia Banishment

Question 1

A01

Answer 1

• severe punishment of his most loving daughter Cordelia sets the stage for brutality towards characters within the play
• demonstrates Lears lack of insight into true loyalty and love

Question 2

A02

Answer 2

• Cordelia’s refusal to follow her manipulative sisters deception, had ultimately resulted in Lears wrathful reaction, “Here I disclaim all my paternal care, / Propinquity and property of blood a stranger to me and my heart”
• Lears egotism and need for flattery is shown to not only reveals Lear’s impulsive and harsh nature but also foreshadows the suffering and chaos to follow
• shown through juxtaposition of the Cordelia’s daughter bond, to stranger,
• The cruelty of this act is compounded by its irrationality, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most virtuous individuals in a world governed by capricious authority.
• The use of harsh, formal language such as “disclaim,” “paternal care,” “propinquity,” and “property of blood” conveys a sense of finality and legalistic severance, underscoring the brutality of Lear’s decision. The choice of words highlights the cold, calculated nature of Lear’s renunciation, emphasizing its savagery.
• However, Lears use of legalistic language contrasts with the personal nature of the relationship, highlighting Lear’s inability to distinguish between genuine affection and superficial flattery, perhaps highlighting Lear’s inability to distinguish between genuine affection and superficial flattery.

Question 3

A03:

Answer 3

• Lears impulsive decision to disown Cordelia highlights his tragic flaw—his inability to perceive genuine loyalty and love.

This reflects the broader theme of blindness and insight, which is central to the play. For instance, Lear’s savage actions can be seen as the initial step in the tragic unraveling of his character and kingdom.
The brutality of his decision contributes to the overall tragic structure of the play, where personal flaws and errors in judgment lead to widespread suffering and downfall.

Question 4

A04 + A05

Answer 4

• This initial act of brutality against Cordelia catalyzes the tragic events that follow, reflecting Shakespeare’s commentary on the destructive power of human folly and pride.
• Shakespeare’s use of sharp, declarative sentences and disowning language enhances the sense of brutality and finality, emphasizing Lear’s tyrannical disposition.