Masks in King Lear
The Role of the Mask in King Lear What is a mask? The dictionary defines a mask as "anything that disguises or conceals." Characters in King Lear use masks throughout the play. The masks are used for two main functions: to conceal one's true plans and actions and to provide a protective disguise. Goneril, Regan, and Edmund, corrupt individuals in the play, all use masks to hide their evil and vicious intents. Goneril and Regan show their father a mask of love, while hiding their goal to obtain all of his land and power. Edmund wears many masks during the play. All of which are used to gain respect, power, and possibly love. Kent and Edgar, honorable characters in the play, also have to resort to using masks. Unlike their adversaries, however, their masks are only used to serve virtuous purposes. Kent wears a mask to keep his identity unknown so that he can serve, help and protect the King. Edgar wears different masks to protect himself and bring justice to the antagonists. Although Goneril, Regan, and Edmund never wear an actual mask or disguise, they all hide behind metaphorical masks. Goneril is the first character in The Tragedy of King Lear to exercise this method of concealing he
Goneril uses her mask to disguise her true intents. Edgar proves himself as a righteous person who does not employ deceit for his own profit. This "champion" will be Edgar in yet another disguise. Goneril and Regan are very happy at the outcome of these events, for now they will be the sole heirs of the King's land and occupy all of his power. In using the mask, he has saved his father's life. Kent admits that he has loved Lear". When King Lear asks his youngest daughter, Cordelia, to describe her love for him, she refuses. dedicated to the treatment of the mentally ill" (Events 8). The despicable Oswald is wounded and gives Edgar some letters he was carrying.
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