The Paradox of Emotional Breakdown and Intellectual Clarity

• What is the significance of Lear's clarity in his first speech?

  It marks the moment where he has clarity while also breaking down emotionally.
• What does Lear express when he says, “I’ll not weep”?

  He is trying to suppress his emotions despite his distress.
• How does Lear's mental clarity relate to his emotional distress?

  His mental clarity brings emotional distress, and vice versa.
• What does Kent know about the political situation?

  Kent is still involved in political affairs and knows what is going on.
• What is Kent's relationship with Cordelia?

  Kent is still in contact with Cordelia.
• Has Kent been involved in a French plot to invade England?

  No, he has not been involved in such a plot.
• What do we learn about the nature of power from the text?

  Everyone has spies and the higher class is focused on gaining or maintaining power.
• What is the relationship between Goneril and Regan?

  They are allies out of mutual self-interest, with their husbands at odds for power.
• What consequence does Lear's “indiscretion” have on power dynamics?

  It leads to inevitable consequences in the power struggles among characters.
• What interests does Kent act upon?

  Kent acts on his self-interest, the interests of Lear, the country, and his class.
• What would happen if Cordelia wins?

  Lear will be protected, Kent will regain power, and Goneril and Regan will not rule.
• What has happened to Kent's power?

  Kent has been executed from power.
• How might Kent seek to regain power?

  By allying with France as a way back to power.
• What symbolic association does Kent have with France?

  Kent is symbolically associated with France because the ruling class in Britain is Norman.