king lear

Humility’s Perspective William Shakespeare’s King Lear tells the account of the tragic downfall of two men, King Lear and the Earl of Gloucester, from power. Their ordeal stems from their own inability to judge the true intentions of their children. While the deceitful kin gain power and authority, the true and honest are banished. In order for the King and the Earl to realize their errors, they must first experience a great deal …

…I prithee, break” (V,iii, 313). Throughout much of his life, King Lear had a life of privilege and flattery, believing, therefore, himself to be wise and loved. Not until he took the perspective of humility, though, did he properly gage the position he once held: “Plate sin with gold, and the strong lance of justice hurtles breaks; Arm it in rags, a pygmy’s straw does pierce it” (IV, vi, 167-9). -The Tower of Power