King Lear

According to you, who is the greatest Machiavellian in King Lear?

King Lear

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In my opinion, King Lear is an excellent example of Machiavellian theories in the play. He views Cordelia's disrespect and strives to scare her into obedience by disowning her and taking away her inheritance. Thus, by disowning his daughter he breaks an oath..... something Machiavelli suggests is alrights, as oaths are only required to be adhered to for as long as there's good reason to do so.

“Here I disclaim al my paternal care, Propinquity, and property of blood, And as a stranger to my heart and me Hold thee from this forever.”

Another example, and likely the strongest, is Edmund. Edmund is unquestionably intelligent and merciful, but he also illustrates the necessary qualities of deceitfulness, pride, cruelty, and vanity. Edmund lies to promote his own agenda, even to the point of setting up his own brother, after which, he shows mercy for the alledged and untrue accusations.

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King Lear