English quotes Flashcards
Lens: Through a psychological lens, this could reflect Lear’s sense of emptiness and eventual madness. Through a Marxist lens, it could symbolize the futility of striving for wealth and status.
“Nothing will come of nothing.” (Act 1, Scene 1)
Lens: Through a feminist lens, this can show how Lear perceives himself as a victim, ignoring his own abuse of power over his daughters. A moral or ethical lens could explore the idea of justice and personal responsibility.
“I am a man more sinned against than sinning.” (Act 3, Scene 2)
Lens: From a family dynamics perspective, this quote speaks to the theme of parent-child relationships. A psychoanalytic lens might explore Lear’s narcissism and need for validation from his daughters.
“How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child!” (Act 1, Scene 4)
Lens: A historical lens could examine this in terms of the cyclical nature of power and downfall. From an existentialist perspective, it might reflect the inevitability of fate and the human condition.
“The wheel is come full circle; I am here.” (Act 5, Scene 3)
Lens: A philosophical lens, particularly one focused on existentialism, would delve into Lear’s realization of human vulnerability. A naturalist or materialist reading might highlight man’s insignificance in the face of nature.
“Unaccommodated man is no more but such a poor, bare, forked animal as thou art.” (Act 3, Scene 4)
Lens: Through a religious or theological lens, this could discuss the role of divine justice. From a moralistic view, it examines the idea of karma or punishment for immoral actions.
“The gods are just, and of our pleasant vices make instruments to plague us.” (Act 5, Scene 3)
Lens: A tragic lens could highlight the absurdity and futility of life. A postmodern lens might analyze the deconstruction of meaning in this line, portraying life as a chaotic, meaningless performance.
“When we are born, we cry that we are come to this great stage of fools.” (Act 4, Scene 6)
Lens: A psychoanalytic lens could explore the nature of evil within civilized society. A political lens might relate this to leaders who, though outwardly respectable, are morally corrupt.
“The prince of darkness is a gentleman.” (Act 3, Scene 4)
Lens: From a naturalistic lens, Lear’s rage mirrors the chaos of the storm, reflecting the turmoil in his mind. Through a metaphysical lens, this could represent humanity’s struggle against forces beyond its control.
“Blow, winds, and crack your cheeks! Rage! Blow!” (Act 3, Scene 2)
Lens: A psychological lens would focus on Lear’s growing realization of his impending madness. From a feminist perspective, it could represent his fear of losing control and authority in a patriarchal society.
“O, that way madness lies; let me shun that.” (Act 3, Scene 4)