Character sketch in Death of a Sailsman

Willy Loman- An old man who let's the burdens of the world get to him. His father's absence during his growing up has lead him to have a constant longing for his father, or his father's lifestyle, or what his father would have wanted him to be like. He is caught up in the American dream of the meaning of accomplishment- establishing easy life, and easy lifestyle. His not achieving this bothers him beyond what he recognizes. He is fragile but his ego causes him to come off as stern and even harsh. From his beginning, he has always pressured his sons into belief in the American dream and his dream crumbles and he can be observed going crazy.

Linda- a woman who loves her husband whole heartedly. She is very submissive and does not necessarily take things on, rather she is passive and chooses to let them pass. Coming across as soft spoken, she was very tolerant of the things she saw in her husband and children that she should have corrected.

Biff- A young man who has grown up being the favourite child of his father. He was always prized and somewhat spoilt by his father and at the same time, it placed pressure on him to become what his father was trying to make of him- a living testimony of the American dream. He, like his father does not accomplish this dream and he finds himself lost in the world, unsure of the next step he should take as a grown man in life.

Happy- Has always lived in the shadow of his father and brother and so, this pushed him into accomplishing more than his brother, however, they both maintain a good relationship. He looks up to his brother and demonstrates belief in the wrong things, like having many girls. This is one reason why he looked up to his brother. He does not openly portray his unhappiness at being in the shadow of his father and brother, but even being more accomplished that him, he is unsure of his next step in life, where the American dream is going to take him.

Ben- the brother of Willy. He symbolizes wealth and time, two key aspects of the American dream. In the eyes of Willy as well as the audience, he has accomplished the American dream. He is rich without having to work hard for it, he speaks like one who does not worry about other aspects of life, like family and true fulfillment in the things which are not tangible. Willy seeks to be like him.

Bernard- the representation of the opposite of what Willy believes. He is the true image of a successful person, withstanding criticisms from Willy, endeavouring in school as well as caring for others. In his young years, he is a bookworm, living next door to the Lomans and constantly persists for Biff to do better in school etc. He allows for an avenue to see how Willy operates with regards to his sons, not valuing education and taking his sons mistakes against morality seriously.

Did King Lear's tragic flaw lead to his demise?

The question is asked: did King Lear's tragic flaw lead to his demise. As an individual, and one of opinion, it is an easy assumption that the answer would be yes, however, factors of the drama have to be dissected and examined in order to justifiably and objectively come to a proven conclusion.
One step closer to coming to an official conclusion is first deciphering and distinguishing what exactly King Lear's demise was. He banished a trustworthy, wise friend and servant along with his only faithful and loving child. The events which followed were ones triggored by disrespect from both children and servants, rejection and being ignored. These were the events which caused him to slip further and further worsening his downfall.
Looking deeper into it, one can identify his tragic flaw from as early as his banishment of his servant and daughter early in the drama. Pride. Pride is evident as he asked his children to express how much love they had towards him. Pride is evident as he makes request of 100 knights to be with him after he has no real purpose to the kingdom. Pride is also evident as he gets upset when his daughters when they do not devote the time and respect to him that he expects (match their extravagant expressions of love). Pride is evident in King Lear's speeches where he becomes angry with himself for crying, or where he speaks of how he is worth nothing to them (his children). The amount of pride he had is the major contributor to his character and it's development. The instances where he had become upset, like those mentioned before, it is not unnatural to get upset, but rather it was the high value he placed on pride. His great pride caused his being deaf and ignorant and bypassing the words of advise that those who loved him were willing to share. Therefore, too much pride can be concluded to be King Lear's biggest flaw.
His problem with pride is what makes King Lear stubborn to the perspective of Cordelia when she spoke about her love and the love of her sisters. Too much pride was recurrent throughout Lear's speeches and reactions, for example to Oswald when he referred to him as 'my lady's father'. He was forced to become reduced to less than King and this was all he meditated upon. It was the subject of his every thought. Time, however, had taught him to become more appreciative and not be blind to the true colours of persons.
Surely, the root of it all lay within his tragic flaw of excessive pride. All the series of events, his banishment of his daughter, being out in the rain in the storm because he refused to go back to the kingdom, down to his very death, were all a result of this flaw. Therefore, it can safely be concluded that King Lear's tragic flaw did lead to his demise

The Nature of Lear's Madness; comparing to Edgar

According to the Pocket Oxford Dictionary, 'mad' is defined as 'insane, frenzied; wildly insane'. This is one very constant theme appearing in the drama of King Lear by Shakespeare. There are several characters which raise the question in the audiences' mind, the minds of fellow characters, or in their own minds as to whether they are 'mad'. Some have alternative motivves and methods to the madness they portray; others were truly loosing grasp of stability and reality in their mental state. Two perfect examples and illustrations of this is the situation of 'poor Tom'/Edgar, as compared with King Lear.
King Lear made wild decisions, without putting in any real thought. Being King and the surmountable responsibilities he had, it was 'wildly' insane for him to have given it all up, particularly to persons he knew were unreliable and deceitful. After that fact, he banished the daughter he knew was worthy, honest and respectable. His reason based solely on her inability to express flattery to him... an incompetent reason. He banishes his loyal and close friend and advisor for the same crime of honesty, and with all of these behaviours he continues to become stressed and frightened at the series of events which follow; his daughters underminding him and the discredited names they were bringing upon themselves and the kingdom; their disrespect and disregard for him. He was never calm in his state, but rather, rowdy and commanding- quick to a temper. This was always the case, even when he was wrong. He only continued to make irrational decisions, like staying out in the storm or talking with himself. He did show signs of losing grips of stability and reality. The seriousness of the root of his madness as well as Shakespeare's lack of signals to indicate that it was a deliberate act, all show that King Lear was one of those characters who were sincerely 'mad'.
Poor Tom had a motive and method to his madness. He intended to stay close to his father, find out how the rumours of his treachery came about, and redeem his name if possible. The only way to do this was to obtain a disguise as a character no one would pay attention to. Poor Tom was the perfect candidate, they all let him go where he felt to go and say what he felt to say. He did not do anything wildly insane while as Edgar, therefore it can only be assumed that his wild and insane acts were only in character. When his father comes to him, eyes plucked out, Edgar expresses the want to reveal his true self. Also, in his monologues, Edgar is always speaking something of substance, particularly about what he has learned about the ways of the world and all it's misfortunes. He comments on the characters of Lear and Gloucester as any sane person would, however his madness was assumed because of appearance rather than action.
True madness is not judged by appearance nor is it by labelling, madness is something which goes much more personally and reveals itself in character. Lear was te character which was truly mad, though most characters did not label him as such, it was because he was the king and during his life, he had commanded the respect of so many. Edgar was labelled as mad because of his appearance, his attempt to be mad had a motive which none could consider insane or wild. It was well thought through, and Edgar had all grips on reality.

Comparisons and contrasts within King Lear

King Lear & Gloucester
Both men are easily fooled: King Lear was deceived with lies in the form of wordy flattery by his two daughters into giving them superiority and control in the Kingdom. Gloucester was easily deceived with the device of lies in the form of stories told to him by his eldest son, convincing him to give him superiority as his heir.
Both men were blessed and cursed with both bad and good children. King Lear's first two daughters and Gloucester's eldest son were villains in the plot, mean while, King Lear's last daughter and Gloucester's last son were 'the good guys'.
Both men turned against their children, and ironically in both cases it was the good child who did not deserve it. King Lear banished his daughter, the only one true to him after the lies of his other two daughters. Gloucester declared war against his son after believing the lies of his elder son. His younger son was innocent of any crime or dishonour.
Both men were elderly
Both men were very emotional. King Lear displays a lot of emotions throughout the play such as when he curses his two daughters after his unfair treatment He became depressed and distressed. Gloucester is the same when he finds out of his younger son's treachery, he resorts to violent means and is depressed distressed.
Gloucester was a servant, Lear was a King.
Gloucester loved both his sons evenly even though society deemed them unequally worthy. His elder child was illegitimate and the younger was legitimate. King Lear did not love each of his daughters the same amount even though society deemed them all equally worthy.

Kent &the Fool
Both are reasonably wise. Kent and the fool saw deception for what it was from the onset. When the two daughters lied to the king about their insincere love, both Kent and the fool expressed disapproval at the King believing them.
Both men were very loyal to the king. When the king had his downfall and was less than kind to them both, they still carried themselves as loyal servants, by his side even though so many of his servants has left him and there was the option of joining with Goneril and Regan who had more power.
Both men were very brave and vocal to the King about their dissatissfation as his decision making skills. In fact it was a constant in the speeches of fool even though there were possible consequences of being so brave. The fool was threatened to go to the stocks and whipped and Kent was banished from the kingdom.
Both men wore some form of disguise. Kent's disguise was physical; to carry himself off as an old man different to Kent, just so he may remain affiliated with the King. The fool's disguise was a little more in depth. The fool disguised himself behind his status and he presumed personality. He disguises his words of wisdom behind remarks that appear dumb and entertaining at the forefront so he may remain affiliated with the King.
The fool had a different approach than Kent. It has a greater impact and it was much more long term. The fool provided entertainment in times of deep deep sorrow for the king. In his speeches he was careful to use illustrations of his point and even when he himself was serious, he always remained in character as an entertainer. Kent was aggressive and displayed his seriousness to the king. His sternness made the King not was to listen and that landed him a place outside of the kingdom.

Edmund & Elgar
Both brothers were loved by their father.
Edgar was a respected and respectable young man in society, stemming from his legitimate status. Edmund was not a respectable person nor was he noticed amongst society stemming from his illegitimate status.
Edmund was a conniving deceitful and selfish man who turned the central axis of his life into being money and power disregarding the love that his father had for both his children and causing havoc and heartache, using his status as justification. Edgar was innocent and honest. He was noble and believed in family and the love therein. He had respect for his brother, displayed in conversations they had. He was not selfish and expressed no excessive desire to obtain his fathers possessions.

Goneril& Regan
Both sisters established themselves as liars from their opening speeches in the drama. They lie to their father and express a surmountable amount of love (beyond life itself, beyond all other joys 1:1); beyond which is even realistic, particularly since they have husbands.
Both sisters were neglected by their father and had to compete with Cordelia for his love and attention. He even blatantly declares love for Cordelia being more that his love for the others in front of them.
Both sisters were bitter towards him and took the opportunity to act it out after they had already fooled their father into letting them obtain the kingdom and all his possessions and riches. They were, in turn bitter to him when he needed them the most after banishing Cordelia, and made him feel unwelcome. They underminded his authority.
The reversal of power in the kingdom in their favour also seemed as an avenue for revenge towards their father. Carrying out acts that he was against. Exchanging somewhat harsh words with him when he had been downgraded to a powerless old man. They ignored his complaints and cared very little for his feelings. His servants were punished as well, such as placing Kent in the stocks and taking out Gloucester's eyes. Regan was more cruel that Goneril however.
Both sisters were very vain and too concerned with the material things of the world to make up for their personal value. They were married to dukes and had great possessions in Britain, however they still craved for more which brought about the chaos in the land. They both had lost sight of important things to life like love and family.

Cornwall & Albany
Both men were Dukes.
Both men were married to the daughters of King Lear.
Albany is a kind-hearted gentleman and has disputes with his wife, Goneril, for the was that she treated her father. He disagrees with his being ignored and disrespected. Cornwall was exceptionally cruel and encouraged the behaviour of his wife, Regan,being unfair to her father.
Cornwall was exceptionally greedy, even though he had position and wealth, he still craved more and seems to want to go to any extent creating conflict about the kingdom being divided and therefore, shared. Rumours start about the kingdom that Cornwall and Albany would begin a war about it.
Cornwall takes delight in cruelty. He plucks out Gloucester's eyes when he is undeserving and innocent. He rewards Edmund for treachery against the king and his father. His cruelty brought him to his end, meanwhile Albany proves to be much less greedy and cruel. He does not do such violent acts, and still has some consideration for honour.

King of Burgundy & King of France
Both men expressed a love for Cordelia and intended to pursue her hand in marriage.
Both men were Kings
Burgundy was self-centered. He already has great wealth, being a King; when Cordelia has become vulnerable and weak due to a confrontation with her father, he does not hesitate to back off of her and his desires for her hand in marriage justifying himself in say that she has nothing, suggesting he was most concerned with expanding his riches. France was a selfless man. When Cordelia was weak, neglected and banished, he stepped up to the plate and proved himself as an honest gentleman, saying that his love for her is greater than any shortcomings of what is materialistic. He still takes her hand in marriage.

Comment on the fool's speeches in 2:3

'ha ha...wooden nether-stocks.' - He is cruel. He makes reference to tying horses by the head dogs and bears by the neck, all difficult jobs. He makes reference to them to exaggerate how cruel. At this point he is in character, randomly making comments and giving opinion.

'Winter's not gone yet...canst tell in a year.' -He establishes that it is the natural order of things just like the birds who fly a certain direction in winter, that man does not receive genuine love. Within this speech he advises with words of wisdom in poetry which indicates even to the audience that the speech upcoming is of immense importance. It speaks of how a man is loved only for material things and those who have much fortune are never willing to help the poor. Then he refers it to the predicament of the King, how his daughetrs have begun to treat him.

'And thou hadst been set...deserv'd it.' - He says that the question asked by Kent has an obvious answer and the question should not even have bothered to have been asked. Because the answer was so obvious, that makes the question silly and therefore, like the fool, he should have been puchished.

'We'll set thee to school...the fool no knave perdy.' - He speaks almost sensibly here, with some exaggeration. Blunt; he uses ants as an example to start his point. This speech emphasizes the nature of mankind. When people see that someone is going downhill, they neglect them. There are other opportunites available which would land them in a better place, people forget about loyalty because self comes first. The fool, however is just not like that, and he intends to stick with the King, through his trials.

'Cry it to nuncle as the ...buttered his hay.' - He uses sarcasm encouraging the King to cry to his heart just as other foolish persons did after their silly actions. Here he emphasizes another element of mankind's mindset. People do foolish things for the wrong reasons simply because they do not understand the full extent of their actions. Only foolish results occur and the purpose is never reached.

The fool was the most foolish character in the play 'King Lear'

The statement has been made that the fool was the most foolish of characters in the Shakespearean play 'King Lear'. The topic has brought about some amount of controversy as to whether or not it was true. Having knowledge of the definition of 'foolish' according to the Oxford Pocket Dictionary; lacking good sense or judgement, unwise; and 'most'; as the largest amount, the stance of disapproval to the topic was assumed. Rephrased, the topic states: the fool was the character which had the largest of amount of lacking good sense, judgment or wisdom. The are many points which can challenge this claim.
Firstly to note was his constant speeches to the king where he highlighted the king's poor decisions. The fool was a consistent character who from his entrance to exit, was bold and daring in pointing out to the King what he did that was wrong. Professor Bradley says 'he acts as the soul of outer consciousness for the king.' Consciousness is defined as awareness and knowing, with this description of the fool, he cannot still be associated with the adjective 'foolish'. As the audience progresses with the play, they can decipher his parables to realize that his is the voice of reason. 'I have used it nuncle, e'er since thou mad'st the daughters...such a King should play bo-beep'(1:4) He speaks truth and honesty but they are based on his judgment of the predicament. With this being so, then it challenges the claim that the fool has a lack of judgment.
Secondly, in the speeches that he makes, he represents his points metaphorically, vibrantly and creatively. Making use of his position to the King was an admirable task. How he used his position of 'base' to his advantage to bring about a consciousness in the king is one which requires great tact. he demonstrates an impact upon the King which goes way beyond his status. He causes the King to think seriously into his words as they are so constant and blunt. He demonstrates a lot of wisdom in the the points that me makes as well as the way they are brought across. He, for example will tell the King of his foolishness, then make statements like 'but no one will listen to a fool' or speak on the fact that he would be whipped for 'honesty'. This actually manipulates the King into taking him seriously as well as the ability in all of his speeches to get away because of their thin veil of humour. For example; 'If I gave them all my living, I'ld keep my coxcombs myself, there's mine, beg another of thy daughters.'(1:4) 'Prithee tell him... he will not believe a fool.' (1:4) This challenges the claim that he was lacking sense.
Thirdly, the fool demonstrates great wisdom. This is proven in his ability to prophesy. In his entrance dialogue, the fool states 'why this fellow has banish'd...against his will' (1:4) Indicating that the king was not even conscious of what he had done and the chaos that would be brought about in the Kingdom, so much so that it would have been better to leave the kingdom as he caused Cordelia to. This claim became truth because a great chaos did indeed fall upon the land. Another prediction made by the fool was in scene5 of act 1: 'She will taste as like this, as a crab does to a crab.' Indicating to the King that the same predicament he suffered with Goneril would be repeated with Regan. The confidence with which he deliberates his opinions and the truth that is reflected in them are reflections of great wisdom, the fool can therefore not be unwise.
Lastly, the word 'most' suggests largest amount. Therefore, a comparison was made between the fool and the King. Interestingly enough, the first note made was the decision where King Lear went against the natural order of things, placing his kingdom in the hands of his two young daughters based solely upon the ability of flattery. He banished a daughter whom he love and cherished beyond all others because of his pride and unnecessary desire at flattery. He was irrational and quick tempered in dealing with his subjects, he banished his adviser, Kent, for pointing out the truth. On the contrary, the fool challenges the decisions of the king, reasons and makes his opinions and prophecies. On a figurative, scale it would appear the King is more foolish than the fool, if this is so, the claim that the fool is the most foolish can be refuted solely from the use of the word 'most', suggesting largest amount.
In concluding, a reiteration of the point of this essay would not have been justifiably done without an interesting quotation from a fellow character, Goneril, 'I would you would make use of your good wisdom.' (1:4) Here, Goneril unconsciously reveals that the fool says words of wisdom and because they jeopardize what she attempts to do and can manipulate the king's mindset out of her favour. Her statement there confirms that the fool has wisdom. Based on the evidence given above, the fool did not have a lack of good judgment and sense nor was he unwise. Therefore, according to the Oxford definition, he was not foolish. Outside of that, compared to other characters within the same play, King Lear, for one, was more foolish, therefore a claim to be the 'most foolish' is, in my mind, strongly refuted.

Act 2 Scene 1

1. Curan's reference to an impending war between The duke of Albany and the Duke of Cornwall was significant. The conflict caused, rumours assumed, them to be on their way to Edgar's location. This news became a help for Edmund because he then could twist it to appear that they were coming for Edgar. It hastened the process of having a reason to make Edgar flee entirely and instill fear in him so that he can progress with his plot of villainy.

2. Edmund uses a clever trick of action to prove the claims he made earlier. He uses the trick of setting up an image which would only prove believable to his father. He injures and puts blood on himself tells his brother to use his sword before he fled, all of which would only be viewed by his gullible father as 'hard' evidence, and reason to become more passionate about Edgar's supposed villainy. He then fabricates a conversation between himself and his brother with such skill. This villainy he excutes with such skill shows a nack for manipulating his father's character to suit him. He gains his father's love and respect then uses it to his advantage to plot and scheme all manners of evil.

3. Regan played an important part to this scene. From her opening lines she uses sarcasm to provoke Gloucester in thinking about his current misfortune. She refers to Edgar as the one her father named, her fathers godson. She also adds to the believablity of the scenario in the eyes of Gloucester because she relates his behaviour to that of the ones he spends his around. The knights are percieved as bad people who encourage evil, if these are the persons with whom he associates himself, then it is no wonder, she proclaims. Taking Gloucester deeper into his new found hatred of his ligitimate child.

4. Cornwall has become very authoritative in this scene. He believes he has a peak amount of power to execute various decisions as though the kingdom were his own. He acts the part of a king. He passes judgements like Edgar will never again commit evil works saying that his authority, mighty as it is, may be used however it pleaseth Gloucester so that they may apprehend the supposed villain. He hires Edmund into his service believing that Edmund is trustworthy and honest.

The fool

The fool is a very significant role in the Shakespearean play, King Lear. His role is somewhat of a conscience to the king. He carries himself in a way that a fool would but his words are far greater in wisdom. He speaks his words carefully yet recklessly with every bit of bluntness, which is why persons conjoining the way his message is delivered with the way he carries himself and his position to the king, do not take him very seriously. However, the king is seen taking some note of what the fool says. His call for the fool after having not seen or heard from him in such a while suggests that the King is very fond of his presence. Some of the fool's significant lines included how he has been full of song since the king sent away his daughter foolishly. He also says that the two daughters which are still in the Kingdom were the ones who were truly banished, whist the other was actually set free. He called the king a fool, and says he is old before his time. The video brings out the characteristics of the fool very greatly. His flow in speech, his tones, he dancing, his expressions all add significantly to how comically this man makes his points, and answers the question as to why the King does not take as much offence as he would with any other person telling him these things. He helps the king to see error in his ways and the things around him.

questions on scene 1 and 2

1 In the king's opening speeches, he makes mention of his intention to share his kingdom amongst his three daughters. He speaks of wanting to rest himself from the toils of running a kingdom because he is coming significantly closer to death and wishes to be unburdened. He then addresses the topic of love and places all his anticipation on finding out how much his daughters can use words to express and convey love as if it is the most valid quality to qualify a daughter worthy of receiving primary control of the kingdom. This communicates a large amount of insight into the King's character. It reveals that he is elderly, that he likes to be pampered and that he is naive; that is he should not look upon how extravagantly love can be expressed as the medium to decide who receives the most power in the kingdom by share of land.

2 Goneril and Regan both heed to their father's request of describing their love for him. Goneril, being the eldest, starts off. She says that words cannot describe her love for her father, then she attempts make emphasis of it's immense volume by comparison. She makes comparisons to dear things like riches, eyesight and even breath, saying her long is more that all these: unrealistic comparisons that disguise themselves as powerful expressions of a sincere love to King Lear. Regan strategically starts with a comparison to her sister, saying that they are the same, however she attempts to overthrow her sister's attempt of wooing King Lear in saying her words were not sufficient. She creates another peak in her description than Goneril; she classifies his love as the only joy to her life, her being, and all that matters.

3'Be Kent unmannerly when Lear is mad.' Kent was not entirely justified in saying that Lear was mad. It was very irrational, the way he dealt with the situation with his daughters in Kent's opinion. The reason behind the King's action reflects instability in his mental state and decision making skills. The king was aware that Cordelia was most eligible to receive the majority of the kingdom yet he banishes her for the simple reason of being blunt and reasonable. These actions caused Kent to jump to the instinct that the King had become mad, however the correct terminology was not used. Perhaps foolhardy would have been more accurate.

4 Shakespeare has used rhyming lines in Kent's final speeches. This is a technique used by Shakespeare which creates more impact and draws more attention to the significance of Kent's lines. It draws the reader into paying close attention to them and vaguely suggests that there is a greater meaning to the words spoken; one of the characteristics of poetry, which in Shakespear's eyes, would have made it more appropriate to use. It also creates somewhat of a haunt to the other characters on the scene.

5 The King of France has a significant role with regards to Cordelia. After her father banishes her and takes away all her rights to the kingdom and any of the money which were supposed to have accompanied her going into marriage, as well as her rejection from the King of Burgundy, the king of France was very tender and reasonable. He is an outsider to the situation stating the immense and unfair nature of the situation when it was a case that she was his favourite about the others. He expresses his disbelief of her having committed anything so harmful to the king. He demonstrates having a mind of his own and that he lacks greed. His words to Cordelia were tender and sincere, his expression of love for her as well as claiming her to be his wife show that his speech was calculated to heal the wounds already inflicted.

6 Morally, the state of affairs were on a down note. There was somewhat of a sort of unseen gloom that fell upon the Kingdom after the king's major decision. The two daughters who were not sincere in their love now had most of the control of the kingdom by default, and now Cordelia, the most deserving, was subject to their ridicule and judgment. The state of affairs suggests how life's course is never guaranteed and that life is also very unfair. Those who are least deserving tend to bear the victories meant for the deserving. Honesty does not always prove to be the best of policies.

7 Shakespeare allows for Edmund to have an excuse of illegitimacy. His illegitimacy enables him to be at peace with his role being the villain. In the Shakespearean society, bastards were looked down upon because fornication was a sin which was not taken very lightly. The product of such an action, therefore was generally considered as sinful. Edmund is heard accepting the society's judgment and therefore encourages himself in the course of villainy he is about to pursue.

8 Edmund strengthens his plot when he appears to defend his brother. He creates disharmony within his family deliberately by setting up a scene where he may turn his father against his brother for no reason that was true. In the meanwhile, he keeps a clean record in the dealings so that he eliminates any reason for persons to suspect his villainy when he defends and advises his brother for his safety. Defending his brother was a significant action to the plot because it therefore meant that he was better able to be viewed as a sincere individual, innocent to the villainy in process.

9 Gloucester's gullibility fueled the plot of villainy by Edmund. He was quite quick to believe the contents of the forged letter claimed to be from Edgar. He did not question as much as he should have, or even bothered to investigate the matter, rather, with some acting by Edmund, he believed and that was the final word. His gullibility provided Edmund with less trouble in getting the plot to progress smoothly. Edgar's nobility also came into play because Gloucester loves both his sons. I was reasonable to assume that Edgar would want to over throw his father and have all rights to his properties, since he would have been the heir.

Act1, Scene1 comparison

Within the book of Shakespeare's King Lear, he includes must more dialogues in the opening scene that is viewed in the video. Shakespeare permits there to be an opening dialogue that introduces the characters Edmund, Kent and Gloucester. The king then makes an entry and following him are his daughters, their husbands and attendants. The dialogues with which all these characters make their introduction to the story, enables the audience to have an opening insight into the events and personalities of the play. For example, the introduction of the scene reveals Edmund's illigitimacy, his relationship with his father, his father's relationship with the King, and the type of persons the King, Goneril, and Regan are.
The video scene does not allow the audience to have this much knowlege of the story at it's beginning; it focuses more on the action of the actors. It begins with King Lear Kissing his daughter, Regan whilst he has a manner of delight and excitement as he addresses Cordelia. Regan's greed is evident as she approaches her father in very close and pushy proximities before he deliberates what share of the kingdom she would recieve. There was contact made with her husband where they held hands in a consoling manner which communicates that they were disappointed.
Cordelia's speech about her love for her father was justifiably delivered, well in accordance with the play however, the change in King Lear when he became upsets at her answer was much more vivid in the video. He walks away from he as she speaks and even in his reference to nature, the superior degree to which it was held was seen in the video because of positioning of the hands and gazing up into heaven. the tones of the actors also contribute to the meanings of their words. The shock of the other characters at King Lear's explosion is not included in the book but it adds much dimension to the scene. King Lear was able to incorporate actions to the words he spoke such as pacing and climbing upon the table top to express his passion. Cordelia assumes a possition of fright behind Kent and the close relationship between the two was made evident in their hug before his departure from the scene. The king is heard making an exclamating noise, all of which was not scripted.
After the Kig of France spoke, Codelia ventured to speak but her father turns his back to her and blocks his ears. Cordelia's pain however, is sincere and comes through her voice. She and her father are seen sharing a long and intense bit of eye contact which helps the audience to see into the depth of the scene. the final speech by the king of France was accompanied by very soft musical effects meant to reflect Cordelia's feeling at what he said. He kissed her hand and stood beside her. He prooves himself to be confident about King Lear's injustice, and his love and compassion for Cordelia.
These are factors which may have been communicated or implied within the book of King Lear but the video presentation does offer some forms of enhancement.

King Lear- the question of love- quantity vs quality

In act 1 Scene 1 the drama of Shakespeare's play is already unveiled in some measure. A progression is made towards the climax from early in the unfolding drama with a dialogue between a father (the kind) and his daughters. He questions them on the quantity of their love towards him and this lone factor determines the share of their inheritance:

'Goneril: Sir I love you more that words can wield the matter; Dearer that eyesight, space, and liberty; Beyond what can be valued, rich or rare; No less than life, with grace, health, beauty, honour; As much as a child e'er loved, or a father found; a loves that makes breath poor, and speech unable; beyong all manner of so much I love you.'

My interpretation-
'Goneril: my ever so respected father, I love you more than can ever be described by words alone. You mean more to me than being able to see or have space and freedom. Those are secondary compared to my love for you. My love is beyond all the riches in the world, in face, it is as much as a life itself, infact, I have more love for you than any child that has ever have immence love for her father. My love is so strong, that even breathing and speech are inadequate to compare with'
My take on the scene at this point is that Goneril is pampering and flattering her father with fancy comparisons and unrealistic references. In this her father is well please and as an outsider analyzing the scene, she appears to take it as a mild joke, a conclusion come about as a result of her choice of words. The need for exaggeration emphasizes the liklihood of insincerity in her speech.

'Regan- Sir, I am made of the self-smae metal that my sister is, and prize me at her worth. In my true heart I felt she names my very deed of love; only she comes too short: that I profess myself an enemy to all other joys, which the most precious square of sense posesses; and find I am alone felicitate In you highness' love.'
My interpretation - Regan 'I am not different to my sister, after all we both are of the same background. She is not better than I am, and so she worded her description of love to you very well, but still, it comes short. Let me state this; my world simply does not function without this love that we share, no matter what other circumstances I simply do not feel happy or content until I am certain of your love.'
In my perspective, innocently, Shakespeare is alluding and establishing the basis of the story and it's characters. Regan is very extravagant however she is very observant and has evidently paid attention to the words of her older sister. She then makes an attempt to surpass the love stated by Goneril, flattering her father even more. She describes him as the center of all her choices and the force which controls her happiness. His pleasure grows and he permits to her to have her inheritance without any problems.

Cordelia:'Good my lord, you have begot me bread me, loved me: I return those duties back as are right fit, obey you, love you, and most honour you. Why have your sisters husbands if they say they love you all? Haply when I shall wed that Lord who's hand must take my plight shall carry half my love with him; half my care and duty; sure I shall never marry like my sisters, to love my father all'
My interpretation: Cordelia -'My Lord. The love I have is only proportionate to the love you have ever shown to me. You kept me, raised me and loved me, for that I am always greatful. Why have my sisters married persons for whom she has no love if she herself stated that all the love is for you? I know that when I am married, my husband will have half of my love and attention as opposed to the types of wives my sisters are now, giving all of it to their father.'
This is a young lady who questions her ability to give epistles of any kind as an expression of self. She is rather sarcastic, peaceful and honest. In this scene it appears that she starts off nervous with her aside comments pondering on what is left to say that would satisfy her father's quench for love. However, she is admirably brave as she bluntly states her feelings in the most genuine ways possible, putting away all issues of displeasing him, and rather confronting him with truth.

King Lear's vexation followed as a response to Cordelia's 'less than fancy' expression of the quantity of her love. The difference between the different speeches dealt with in this scene is it's quantitative characteristic against the quality of what is being said. King Lear was a short-tempered man who was unreasonable in his judgement, nor was he accustomed to criticism. This is shown in his follow up threat towards Kent for trying to advise him against the decisions he was making.

1st clear light of day blog

Anita Desai: one of India's most renown authors, who creates stunning and realistic work captivating different issues faced in India such as religious disputes, partition, women and their roles in society, and simply everyday life. This writer has been described as very deep, in carefully giving each of her characters true depth and perspective. She captures readers through these traits in her style of writing. Though her work is fictional, she very accurately describes actual events in India. She is so powerful that she represents India, an eastern land of a very different and stereotyped culture in ways that are accepted, understood and greatly appreciated by international audiences, as well as favoured and praised by the local audience.
This exceptionally talented author of novels and childrens books started with humble beginnings. Born on the 24th of July 1937 in the hill station on Mussoorie, Uttah Pradesh, India; she was one of four children. In her youth India was a British colony. Her mother was German, which she says helped her to develop the objectivity, and maturity with which one examines varying perspectives. She viewed India both through the eyes of an outsider as well was through the eyes of an insider. She grew up with knowledge of English, German and Hindi and was surrounded by Muslim, Hindu and Christian neighbours in her home in Old Delhi and witnessed her society tear apart because of the Hindu-Muslim conflict. No doubt, these factors contribute to the passion and versatility demonstrated through her work. She started writing at the age of seven and by age nine, she was publishing her very own literary works.


The Partition in India
On August 14th and 15th of 1947, British India underwent a major change. The reason there is now the Islamic republic of Pakistan, India, and the People's Republic of Bangladesh is because of this social change that British India underwent. The partition was part of the act of Indian independence from Britain's 350 years of residency. The partition, however, was instigated in 1906 when a group called the 'All India Muslim League' came to be. Muslims were becoming suspicious of the Indian majority being Hindus in the Indian National Congress. They requested the independence from Britain as well as the separation so that Muslims could reside separately to the others. Under Britain's rule the partition due to religion was encouraged because they believed in a divide and rule strategy, when classifications were made amongst the society which separated persons because of religion and other factors, and treated they differently as a result. Britain complied to the Muslim conference because Muslims has a very strong hold in India. The Hindus and Muslims began to disagree because of religious reasons. The Islams called for a muslim communal society. Muslims refused to learn english and refused to associate with the British, however Hindus were, in the meanwhile excelling in positions of government so there was some amount of jealousy involved. The Hindus, however had some resentment towards the Muslims because of them being the nation's past rulers.
The partition left both India and Pakistan in bad conditions. The riots took the lives of many, and displaced up to 12.5 million people. Migration occurred across the border.



Differences between a Muslim and Hindu
In researching about these two religions one can come up with several distinctions between the two. For one, Hindus believe in many gods whereas the Muslims believe in one that is Allah and that name belongs to that one true god of the Muslim religion. Hindus worship idols whereas Muslims worship graves. It is emphasized to the persons of both religions, to consider surroundings and nature as well as appreciate it for it's divine creativity and acknowledgment of their god. Muslims feel that it is a representation of God's divine creation rather than considering it as belonging to god as the Hindus do. The islamic faith believe that all men are created equal where as Hindus take pride in the execution of their caste system ranging from lowest to highest. Hindu men are only allowed to marry one woman whereas Muslim men can have as many wives as are desired. The Hindus also consider cows to have a high level of divinity, therefore it is not eaten in their faith, but rather only by the Muslims of the land. Finally, the Muslims believe in an afterlife which depends heavily on the deeds part-taken in the previous life, meanwhile the Hindus describe what happens after death as a cycle where the soul and the body become one after death, and one's rank in the second life is determined by how you lived the one previous.


Traditional Roles of Women in India
The roles of women in India have changed over the years. Scholars believe that originally, women enjoyed a status of equality with men, then the roles and status began to decline, but in modern India, women undergo many improvement activities, like reformers fighting for the upliftment of women in India. Women have a very strongly felt role within society, they are free to excel in the areas of politics, literature and others, achieve high levels in education and so many other rights. They were free to have opinions but there is always the universal traditional role to taking care and catering to their men, settling down and forming part of the stabilizing force for a successful household. Women in India however, were permitted to be very ambitious. There is animosity between the two sisters Tara and Bimla when, as a child, Tara expressed no more ambition than to simply be a mother. Bimla was expected to go far in her achievement of education, and decide on an ambition which did not involve any dependency. The dependency of a female on her male counter-part is traditional, however, and her care and nurturing of his needs as well as the family's is a traditional role.


Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi is a legendary man to India's citizens. He spent a lot of years in prison and soon after, died in 1948 after leading a life filled with the excitement of leading several acts of civil disobedience. It was he who was a major pioneer in gaining India it's independence from Britain; a foreign domination. During a riot in India, he displayed great bravery is personally making an attempt to make peace in the land. He lead campaigns, encouragement of women rights, easing poverty and even land-tax discrimination.
In his youth he traveled to London to train in law and as a barrister. Later in life he traveled to South Africa where he wrote many articles on Black people and experienced incidences of discrimination such as being barred from several hotels. These events in his youth were what brought about the development in his personality where he became more aware and conscious, this is part of why he became such a social activist. Gandhi went so far as to attend a meeting in Delhi during the latter part of World war 1 where he could further emphasize his case of India's desire for independence. During world was 2, Gandhi supported strategies of non-violent and moral support to the British.
Gandhi's death was sudden. It occurred as he was approaching a platform at a prayer meeting, suddenly, he was shot and died. The act of homicide was as a result of persons holding the opinions the he ruined and divided India.