KENT

KENT

1. From the opening scene Kent wins the admiration of the audience-

   • He is loyal, courageous, blunt and perceptive
     • His loyalty to Lear is absolute and unwavering
       • His love for Lear is the guiding force of his life: it is no exaggeration to say that Kent liver for Lear:
         • "My life I never held but as a pawn to wage against thine enemies".

2. Despite Lear's harsh mistreatment of him, Kent's loyalty to his master never wavers

   • Even after being banished and threatened with death, he is determined to return in disguise and serve Lear in some capacity
     • "Now, banish'd Kent,/ If thou dost stand condemn'd, so may it come, thy master, whom thy lovest shall find thee full of labours"
       • Kent's affection for and total loyalty yo his master are strikingly evident in the closing stages of the play
   • Kent updates the audience on important political and military developments.
     • informs of the growing division between Albany and Cornwall
       • We learn that the forces of good are now assembling and are on their way to rescue Lear

3. He regularly comments on and clarifies Lear's mental state for the audience

   • "All the power of his wits have given way to his impatience"
     • He remains and watches over Lear as the storm rages on the heath, guiding his master towards the shelter of a hovel
       • Lear asks him "Wilt break my heart"
         • His response reflects his deep affection and absolute fidelity to his master:
           • "I had rather break mine own"

4. KEY ADJECTIVES

   • loyal, devoted
     • shrewd, perceptive, astute
   • loving (towards Lear)
   • blunt, direct
   • philosophical
   • courageous, fearless