King Lear

            Shakespeare's King Lear, is a story that takes many themes and relates them into one story, that has tested time for hundred's of years. A story that was written by what may be thought to be one of the world's greatest writers, today shows themes such as love, hate, betrayal, justice, and loyalty.
             Lear himself is the main character in this play. The story is set upon his decisions, whether or not they were for the better is determined throughout the play. His need to be loved for his own self-assurance and ego are perhaps the downfall to his character. Speeches by Regan and Goneril to their father were noticeable lies to everyone, except to the blinded Lear. These lies help to secure his fate, and reveal more about his unstable character. His one daughter that he truly loved, is the one lady that actually had enough dignity to speak her mind, and not be tricked into buying her love from her father. Cordelia is the only one who has enough heart to speek her true thoughts: "Unhappy that I am, I cannot heave my heart into my mouth. I love you Majesty according to my bond; nor more nor less" (I,i,92-95). .
             Contradictory to this theme is hate. Edmund, may it be through complete greed or hate towards his half brother Edgar, demonstrates actions that can to be considered both love and hate. It is known that Edmund despises the fact that Edgar is the true son of Gloucester, while he is the illegitimate one who stands to inherit nothing. Edmund's love for money and power, and his revulsion for Edgar's inheritance alone, may be enough to drive the young man into his own direction of hate.
             Loyalty is the backbone of society. Without it what would I have to look for in a friend or a loved one? It allows one to feel comfort in their surroundings, and without it one would feel lost. Betrayal on the other hand may be the worst feeling, almost as though you are sick in your gut, and you have that feeling you get when you are utterly disappointed.