illustrated portrait of English playwright and poet William Shakespeare

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Student Question

For a comparison essay on King Lear and Julius Caesar, focusing on betrayal, what other arguments can be made beyond power struggles and gender portrayal?

Quick answer:

In a comparison of betrayal in King Lear and Julius Caesar, consider the theme of "nature" and what is "natural." Shakespeare explores human nature and the societal laws governing actions amidst lust, greed, and jealousy. Betrayals by those expected to be loyal, such as family and rulers, disrupt both human and natural orders, reflected in storms, omens, and madness. This affirms societal values and the Divine Right of Kings, emphasizing loyalty as natural law.

Expert Answers

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You might also consider the idea of "nature" or what is "natural."  Shakespeare delves into the core of what it means to be human and what eminent laws should govern one's actions in a world beset by compulsions like lust, greed, and jealousy. 

For example, in both Lear and Caesar, people who should be loyal betray those they should "naturally" be loyal to (a father and a ruler).  As a result, they are "punished" for breaking the laws of humanity and of men.  Such actions are reflected in the surrounding environment; therefore, these betrayals in the world of men are also seen as disturbances in the natural world as well (horrible storms, omens, a pervasive mood of dread, the appearance of ghosts, ironic role reversals, or madness).   

In essence, Shakespeare sought to affirm societal values--ones which would seem to support the status quo and support a certain degree of conformity.  In both plays, you can see Shakespeare's support for the Divine Right of Kings with Caesar and Lear both playing the role of king.  Not only is Lear a ruler, he is also a father--the "king" of his family.  When both Caesar and Lear are removed from power, the natural world becomes topsy turvy.  Lear's daughters (except for Cordelia) become villains because they perform the most unnatural act of all--betrayal of one's father. 

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