Letter as a dramatic device in King Lear

William Shakespeare used letters as a dramatic device to reveal the characters' loyalty and betrayal in his play King Lear. The purpose of the letter is to develop the plot and reveal the characters' attributes. Three letters help to develop the plot and reveal the characters of Edmund, Gloucester, Goneril and Albany.         The first letter that appeared on the stage is Edmund's false letter. The letter talked about Edgar's plan to kill to his father, …

…between brothers. Edmund used the letter about French invasion to get higher rank by betray his father, Gloucester. Gloucester decided to help Lear once he knew of the invasion. Albany would fight for England even he knew the army trying to rescue Lear. Goneril sent a letter about the betrayal of Albany, her husband. The actions and reactions of the characters had showed their loyalty and betrayal when there is a letter in King Lear.