King Lear, Acts 1, Grades 9-10

As we delve into Acts 1 of William Shakespeare's 'King Lear', we will explore themes of power, betrayal, and family dynamics. Pay close attention to how characters are introduced and how they interact with each other. This assignment will help you understand the foundation of the play's conflict and the motivations driving its key characters.

Describe the significance of King Lear's decision to divide his kingdom among his daughters. How does this decision set the stage for the play's events?

Analyze Lear's relationship with his daughters based on his interactions with them in Act 1. How do their responses to Lear's demand for public declarations of love define their characters?

Examine the role of the Fool in Act 1. How does the Fool's commentary add depth to the unfolding drama and Lear's decisions?

Discuss the reaction of Kent to Lear's decisions. How does Kent's loyalty to Lear contrast with the actions of Lear's daughters and what does it reveal about his character?

Explore the theme of deception introduced in Act 1. How do the actions of Goneril, Regan, and Edmund establish this theme, and what might it foreshadow for the play's progression?