Lear's 4 Speeches

• What does the Fool suggest Lear do in response to the storm?

  He suggests Lear should go inside and ask for his daughters' blessing.
• How does Lear's attitude towards the storm reflect his character?

  He is self-centered and believes everyone should suffer like him.
• How does the Fool communicate with Lear during the storm?

  The Fool speaks straightforwardly without using riddles or jokes.
• What literary devices does Lear use to emphasize the storm's sounds?

  He uses long vowel sounds and plosive syllables.
• What does Lear express in the first four lines of his speech?

  He expresses a strong grievance against his daughters.
• How does Lear's self-perception change throughout his speech?

  He moves from stoicism to self-pity and paranoia.
• What does the Fool imply with his sexual innuendo and riddles?

  He suggests that Lear has his priorities wrong and warns of consequences.
• Who does Lear address when he says "Let the great gods"?

  He addresses imagined, nameless individuals asking for justice.
• What does Lear accuse people of in his speech?

  He accuses them of professing moral virtue while hiding secret sins.
• What does the phrase "I am a man/more sinned against than sinning" indicate about Lear's mindset?

  It shows he is not ready to accept accountability for his actions.
• How does Kent respond to Lear's proclamations?

  Kent responds practically by suggesting they find shelter.
• What change occurs in Lear's speech with "My wits begin to turn"?

  He starts talking to actual people instead of the storm or characters in his head.
• What does Lear express empathy for in his speech?

  He expresses empathy for others by acknowledging his own coldness.
• What does Lear mean by valuing "vile things"?

  He suggests that hardship makes people appreciate what they have.
• How does the Fool's song relate to Lear's realization?

  It aligns with Lear's meaning that a poor person must accept their fortunes.
• What does Lear's response "True my good boy" signify about his character development?

  It shows he is beginning to pay attention to others and engage in conversation.
• What does "My wits begin to turn" signify in the context of the play?

  It signifies a turn towards sanity from madness.