King Lear critic quotes

‘King Lear subsists in change, by being patient of interpretation.’

Frank Kermode

‘Small is the number of minds who can see with their eyes and think with their minds.’

Albert Einstein

Offers a christian analysis of the play, viewing Cordelia as initially selfish. However, her later experiences of love inspire her to cast off her former preoccupation with the self.

Roy W. Battenhouse 1965

Believes Goneril and Regan to be typical Renaissance pagans, possessing an intense preoccupation with the natural and with the self: they are therefore Machiavellian.

William R. Elton 1966

Claims the play is about Gloucester’s and Lear’s self-discovery after a period of treating others as a means of self-gratitude.

Lawrence Rosigner 1968

Claims the play is a commentary on fathers losing their power in a particular and measurable historical period.

Rosalie L. Cole

Suggests that King Lear criticises that powerful the powerful rights their fathers held over their: Lear abuses his authority over Cordelia, and then needs her forgiveness. The balance of the patriarchal structure is subsequently threatened, as the traditional ruler/subject relationship is upset.

Marianne Novy 1981

Contends that Lear ‘wishes to be the object— the preferred and even the sole recipient — of his child’s love’ The play’s central concern is Lear’s selfishness.

Stephen Greenblatt 1982