The Nature of Loyalty Essays -- English Literature Essays

The Nature of LoyaltyIn the play King Lear, Shakespeare presents the reader with many negative views of society, and of human nature. wholeness of the few bright spots in the play is Kent, a very loyal and honest man. Through Kent and his actions, Shakespeare shows the reader the nature of true loyalty. Kents nature is observable from the very first time he talks to Lear. Lear has begun to detail his disappointment in Cordelia, and announce that he will non be providing her with a dowry. Kent interrupts Lears saving with a cry of Good my liege (Shakespeare 17). This is a very risky move on the part of Kent, as he knows that Lear may not be in a rational state of mind, and may take any disagreeing with him as a challenge. Through this, Shakespeare shows the reader that a truly loyal temperament will not fear the consequences his actions. Shakespeare reinforces this point later on in the play when Kent disguises himself to aid Lear, even though he is aware that if he is ready the penalty is to be death. Kent expresses the extent of his loyalty when he conveys the thought Royal Lear, Whom I have ever honoured as my king, Loved as my father, as my repress followed, As my great patron thought on in my prayers(Shakespeare 17). With this statement we see the type of dedication that is required to someone for true loyalty. Kent is loyal to Lear not only as a king, but as a father and a master. Kent is quite willing to acknowledge that he is less than Lear. Through this talk t...