King Lear- Journal #2

Prompt #2: Respond to the character of the Fool- what characterizes his role/relationship to Lear? How do you perceive him?

The Fool is a very interesting character because of the irony he creates. He is titled the Fool, when in fact he shows the most wisdom. Shakespeare often gives the 'little people' the wise and intelligent role, but by literally calling this role a Fool makes the information given more shocking, and therefore more wise because it is not expected. It also makes the reader pay more attention to it because of the unexpected nature of the Fool. The Fool is able to get away with saying anything he wants, just as long as it is in the name of comedy. He calls King Lear a fool, and tells him to take the Fool's job and to wear the Fool's clothes. To me, this is very interesting because of Lear's temper. He disowned his favorite daughter for not being able to speak flowery, false words to him. And then he banished someone for sticking up for her! Lear has obviously got a temper, yet the Fool can get away unscathed from calling him a fool, and Lear's pride is what normally gets him upset! Is Shakespeare using the Fool to say that when an individual has great pride, they miss out on wisdom that could of saved them from suffering. Or perhaps that great intellect, or common sense even, can be found in the most unlikely places. This may just be much ado about nothing, and Shakespeare is merely trying to please the peasants that frequently stood in the pit to watch his plays.