Scene IV explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Filial Ingratitude

  Goneril's reduction of Lear's knights and her harsh words exemplify the ingratitude of children, which Lear curses as 'sharper than a serpent's tooth.'

• Appearance vs. Reality

  Kent's disguise as a servant contrasts with his true identity, while Goneril's outward respect masks her betrayal.

• Power and Authority

  Lear's loss of control over his retinue and his daughters' defiance highlight the erosion of his kingly authority.

Characters to notice

• King Lear

  Lear hires Kent in disguise, confronts Goneril over her treatment, curses her with sterility, and leaves to find Regan.

• Kent

  Disguised, Kent offers his service to Lear and is hired, then trips Oswald for insolence.

• Goneril

  Goneril confronts Lear about his knights' behavior, reduces his retinue, and plots with Oswald to inform Regan.

• Fool

  The Fool mocks Lear for his folly, offering his coxcomb to Kent and commenting on Lear's situation.

• Oswald

  Oswald is struck by Lear, tripped by Kent, and later sent by Goneril to deliver a letter to Regan.

• Albany

  Albany questions Lear's anger and later warns Goneril against excessive fear, but is overruled.

Key passages

• “How sharper than a serpent's tooth it is / To have a thankless child!”

  It is more painful than a snake's bite to have an ungrateful child.

  Lear laments Goneril's ingratitude, comparing it to a venomous wound.

• “I am ashamed / That thou hast power to shake my manhood thus;”

  I am embarrassed that you can make me cry and feel weak.

  Lear expresses shame that Goneril's actions reduce him to tears.

• “Into her womb convey sterility! / Dry up in her the organs of increase;”

  Make her unable to bear children; dry up her reproductive organs.

  Lear curses Goneril with barrenness as punishment for her betrayal.