William Shakespeare s Hamlet And King Lear - 1772 Words

American literary critic Harold Bloom, known for his love of Shakespeare said, â€Å"Shakespeare is universal†¦ he has hidden himself behind all of these extraordinary men and women.† Shakespeare is able to connect with many who encounter his work by creating a range of characters such as heroes in the form of Hamlet or villains in that of Claudius. Playwright William Shakespeare’s Hamlet and King Lear demonstrate the manipulation of family to achieve one’s ends. Personal gain through family is a significant contributing factor to both of these tragedies. Their gifts of language and its delivery is a clear example as well as these villains having no qualms about ignoring morals, and betraying their own blood. Despite the tragic endings, there is†¦show more content†¦At the same time, he tries to establish his role as a father figure to Hamlet while addressing the Danish Court, and informing them of his marriage to his brother’s widow. â€Å" Tis unmanly grief/ It shows a will most incorrect to heaven/ A heart unfortified, a mind impatient/ †¦ And with no less nobility of love/ Than that which dearest father bears his son† (Hamlet 1.2.94-96, 110-111). Claudius calls Hamlet’s grieving unmanly and urges him to move on, because death is only natural. Moreover, he insultingly claims to feel the most honourable love that a father can have for his son. In comparison, the main plot in King Lear starts to develop quickly from the beginning when Lear holds a contest for his daughters. He claims that whichever one of them loves him the most will receive the biggest piece of the kingdom upon his retirement. Regan and Goneril, seizing an opportunity for power, are quick to flatter their father with the empty words they know he is seeking. â€Å"I love you more than word can wield the matter;/ Dearer than eyesight, space and liberty;/ †¦ Beyond all manner of so much I love you† (King Lear 1.1.56-57, 62). Goneril immediately catches on telling her father that words alone can never express her love. She says that she loves him more than those comparisons she has made. Not to be outdone, Regan has her chance at claiming that her love for Lear is greater than that of her