Filial Ingratitude in Shakespeares King Lear Essay -- King Lear essay

Filial Ingratitude in Shakespeares King Lear In Shakespeares King Lear, the main plot, which is focused around the actus reus of King Lear, is mirrored by the subplot, which is based on the Earl of Gloucesters mistake. The main plot par tout ensembleels the subplot in order to reiterate one of the main themes of the play, filial ingratitude. At first, both Gloucester & Lear are unaware that their disloyal offspring are taking advantage of them, and they have wrongfully accused their virtuous heirs. When they discover their mistakes however, it is too late to crystallize them. In Act I, Scene I, Goneril claims, Sir, I love you more than words can wield the matter...a love that makes breath poor, and speech unable beyond all manner of so much I love you lines 54-60. Regan, her evil counterpart also declares, I alone felicitate in your dear highness love lines 73-74. Cordelia, his honest miss cannot grant him such unfounded flattery and relies, I love your majesty ac cording to my bond nor more nor less lines 89-90. Lear enraged at her answer, b...