1. Design a character genealogy chart that demonstrates why Edgar will be king when Lear dies.
2. Construct a chart that compares the characteristics of a king. On one side, list the requirements that Machiavelli gives in The Prince. On the other side, list Lear's characteristics.
3. Shakespeare's plays are meant to be heard, not just read. Thus, the plays are more easily understood if studied in performance. Selecting a seemingly difficult scene to present to an audience will add depth to your understanding of the text and make complex characters easier to grasp. For instance, the Fool's speech makes his character difficult for readers to understand and appreciate. To make the Fool's words clearer through performance, ask fellow students to help prepare Act III, Scene 2 to present to your classmates.
