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74 pages 2 hours read

King Lear

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1606

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Book Brief

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William Shakespeare

King Lear

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1606
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Britain • 8th century

Publication Year

1606

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

King Lear

Dark

Melancholic

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

224,875 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

King Lear by William Shakespeare is celebrated for its profound exploration of power, family, and madness. Critics applaud its complex characters and deep thematic content, though some find its bleak tone and dense language challenging. Overall, it remains a powerful, thought-provoking tragedy that endures in relevance and impact.

Who should read this

Who Should Read King Lear?

Readers who appreciate Shakespearean tragedies and enjoy complex character studies will relish King Lear. Fans of Hamlet and Oedipus Rex will find the exploration of power, madness, and familial strife compelling. Its profound themes and poignant language will appeal to those who savor intricate plots and rich, poetic dialogue.

4.2

224,875 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Lear

An aging monarch and father of three daughters, struggling with the consequences of his decision to divide his kingdom based on their expressions of love for him. He embarks on a tumultuous journey of self-discovery and kingship.

The youngest daughter of Lear, known for her honesty and devotion to her father despite being disowned for her refusal to flatter him. Her sincere and steadfast nature makes her a symbol of genuine love.

Lear's eldest daughter, caught in a rivalry for power and affection. Known for her ambitious and cunning demeanor, she has a strained relationship with her father.

Lear's middle daughter, noted for her strategic mind and competitive nature. She vies for influence and control, closely involved in familial conflicts.

The legitimate and loyal son of Gloucester, forced into hiding due to deception. He adopts a disguise to survive, ultimately playing a crucial role in revealing familial truths.

The illegitimate son of Gloucester, driven by ambition and a desire to rise in status. His manipulative actions cause significant turmoil within and across families.

A nobleman who experiences personal and familial betrayal, resulting in a transformative journey. Known for his complex family dynamics involving his sons Edgar and Edmund.

A devoted nobleman who remains loyal to Lear, even when it means serving in disguise. He is characterized by his unwavering dedication to the king and his forthright nature.

Lear's clever and insightful jester, offering wisdom through humor. This character serves as both a confidant and a truth-teller to the king.

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Britain • 8th century

Publication Year

1606

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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