Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The line "Why.... (Angrily) Nothing is certain when you're about" is spoken by King Lear to his daughter Cordelia in William Shakespeare’s tragedy, *King Lear*. This outburst occurs in Act I, Scene I, during the infamous love test where Lear demands declarations of affection from his daughters to determine how to divide his kingdom. Cordelia, unlike her sisters Goneril and Regan, refuses to engage in flattery and expresses her love truthfully, but without extravagant language. Lear’s anger stems from her perceived lack of affection, and the line encapsulates his growing sense of instability and the unraveling of his carefully constructed world. The statement reveals Lear’s reliance on outward displays of loyalty and his inability to discern genuine emotion.
The Context of the Line
The scene is pivotal in establishing the play’s central conflict. Lear, aging and desiring to relinquish his power, intends to divide his kingdom amongst his three daughters based on the sincerity of their professed love. Goneril and Regan deliver elaborate, insincere declarations, winning Lear’s favor and substantial portions of the kingdom. Cordelia, however, refuses to participate in this charade, stating she loves Lear according to her bond, not through empty words. This honesty infuriates Lear, leading to the quoted line and ultimately, her disinheritance.
Analyzing Lear’s Anger
Lear’s anger is multifaceted. It’s rooted in his vanity, his need for public affirmation, and his inability to accept genuine, understated affection. He expects a performance of love, and Cordelia’s refusal to provide it is interpreted as a rejection. His anger is also fueled by his growing insecurity as he approaches old age and contemplates relinquishing control. He seeks reassurance of his continued importance, and Cordelia’s honesty undermines this need. The “Why…” at the beginning of the line suggests a desperate attempt to understand her motives, quickly dissolving into frustration.
The Source of the Uncertainty
The uncertainty Lear expresses isn’t simply about Cordelia’s love; it’s about the disruption of his established order. He has built his authority on a system of rewards and punishments, and Cordelia’s refusal to play the game throws this system into chaos. Her honesty challenges his judgment and reveals the superficiality of the affections he has received from Goneril and Regan. The line foreshadows the instability that will plague Lear’s reign and ultimately lead to his downfall. He believes that with Cordelia present, the predictable order he expects is absent.
Dramatic Irony and Thematic Relevance
Shakespeare employs dramatic irony here, as the audience understands Cordelia’s genuine love, while Lear remains blinded by his pride. This irony highlights the play’s central themes of appearance versus reality, the dangers of unchecked power, and the importance of genuine connection. The line also foreshadows the tragic consequences of Lear’s rash decision, as Cordelia’s eventual fate is one of immense suffering and death. The instability Lear perceives is not inherent in Cordelia, but in his own flawed judgment and inability to recognize true worth.
Lear’s Character Arc
This moment marks a crucial turning point in Lear’s character arc. It’s the beginning of his descent into madness and suffering, a journey that will ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of himself and the true nature of love and loyalty. The line is not merely an expression of anger, but a symptom of a deeper psychological and spiritual crisis. It reveals a man clinging to control in the face of inevitable decline, and unable to accept the truth when it is presented to him.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the line "Why.... (Angrily) Nothing is certain when you're about" is a powerful expression of Lear’s vanity, insecurity, and flawed judgment. It encapsulates the central conflict of the play and foreshadows the tragic consequences of his actions. The uncertainty Lear feels stems not from Cordelia’s character, but from her refusal to conform to his expectations and the disruption she causes to his carefully constructed world. The line remains a poignant reminder of the dangers of pride and the importance of discerning genuine emotion from empty flattery.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.