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King Lear

King Lear

William Shakespeare

In William Shakespeare's King Lear, the aging king of Britain descends into insanity as he realizes two of his daughters, Goneril and Regan, are betraying him to gain control of his kingdom, while his other daughter Cordelia, whom he had banished, remains his most devoted supporter. As Cordelia returns to help her father, a bloody, tragic conflict ensues. Shakespeare's King Lear, said to be based on historical events, tells how the quest for power can literally tear a family apart.

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Take the Quiz The conversation between Kent and Gloucester that opens the play serves what purpose?
  1. To reveal that Gloucester liked Edmund’s mother.
  2. To give the reader or audience a chance to know Kent before he returns in disguise.
  3. To demonstrate that Gloucester doesn't love his illegitimate son.
  4. To establish that Edmund is entitled to inherit Gloucester’s estate and title.
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