Disguises in King Lear

Disguised characters play an important role in King Lear. Their actions bridge towards broader motifs: such as truth, nature, and family. Edgar, disguised as Poor Tom, contributes a great deal into plot but is also a great example that shows these motifs. His disguise allowed him to change certain events and help others while staying true to character. Edgar disguises himself as a madman, a beggar. He fulfills this role by tearing his royal clothing …

…now taken the place of the Fool who is never seen throughout the rest of the play. Poor Tom also makes Lear realize that royal class really means nothing, which wise men don’t always come from nobility. Edgar’s disguise allowed him to change a characters’ perspective, including his own. The motifs of truth, nature, and family have all been affected through characters in disguise. Edgar’s true character was shown through Poor Tom.