Characters - The Fool

6 important questions on Characters - The Fool

How does the fool deliver his wisdom? What does this tell us about the fool?

He is more intelligent than foolish - he is not as simple as this stock characterisation of a fool. He delivers much of his wisdom in a choric style, commenting on the action around him. - his jingles provide insight into the play's crucial issues. background-colorHe is the voice of common sense, Lear's conscience

What two words can be used to describe the fool's relationship with Lear?

Close and poignant. e.g. "nuncle" and "boy"

What can be said about the fool's development in the play in relation to Lear?

As Lear spirals into madness, the fool becomes increasingly marginalised until Act 3 scene 6  where his dramatic function has become defunct. Amidst the cataclysmic elements the Fool quickly becomes an absurd, functionless figure and can no longer relate to Lear in his madness = it is understandable that Shakespeare lets him drop from sight, giving no explanation for his disappearance. 

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How does Lear interpret the fool's observation/insight in his riddles? Who does this contrast to?

He regards them as nonsense which contrasts to Kent who claims that "this is not altogether fool" = warns Lear he should be taken seriously; however Lear replies, "I will not believe a fool" = tragic metaphorical blindness.

What is the fool's dramatic function?

- point out the truth

- humanise the titanic figure of Lear - allowing us the feel empathy for his tragedy

The fool follows Lear into the storm. What does this show?

- blind loyalty

- child-like dependance 

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