In this classic Renaissance play out of philosophy and ethics, Shakespeare continues his reflection on what it is to be man, and what it is to be King, one being a firm analogy of the other. Divesting himself of all his responsibilities (and power) Lear leaves an early bequest dividing his kingdom between his three daughters. Infighting and bloody, violent tragedy ensue while Lear’s confidence in his favourite, youngest daughter is failed by his own vanity and the same capricious temper that leads to his downfall.