Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

king-lear

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/kɪŋ lɪər/

Definition

A tragic play by William Shakespeare that tells the story of King Lear, an aging king who decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their flattery rather than their true loyalty, leading to his downfall and madness.

Examples

King Lear’s tragic flaw is his inability to see beyond appearances.
The storm scene in King Lear symbolizes his inner turmoil.
Many adaptations of King Lear have been made in literature and film.

Meaning

King Lear struggles with themes of power, familial relationships, and justice, ultimately exploring the consequences of one’s choices and the nature of human suffering.