Shakespeare’s use of the Fool is to provide humor for the audience. Perhaps, the Fool’s most comical character trait is ironically, he is not a fool. The Fool’s actions, play on words and clever rhymes are certainly amusing; however, he indirectly proves to the audience that he possesses the highest level of intelligence in comparison to the other characters, especially King Lear. In my opinion, the Fool’s purpose in the play thus far is to emphasize the King’s ignorance. The Fool mirrors the King’s true self, a fool.
The King, who is the highest and most powerful figure in his kingdom, has a fool as his only companion. Lear relies on the Fool for comfort and amusement. Lear, however, has underestimated the Fool’s knowledge and capabilities. The Fool has successfully acquired the ability to speak his mind to the King without being banished from the kingdom or being disowned. The Fool calls Lear a fool without him taking any notice to it. “I am better than thou art now. I am a fool. Thou art nothing” (Shakespeare 55). In this statement, the Fool refers to the King as lower than a fool, yet the King thinks nothing of it. One would think a “wise” King would have quickly realized the Fool is mocking his name routinely.
Perhaps one of my favorite qualities of the Fool is his unrecognized specialty as an instigator. The Fool clearly demonstrates his opposition to Regan and Goneril by stating the King was a better person when he did not care if the two daughters were upset. After hearing Goneril’s complaints, the Fool goes on to tell the story of a sparrow who loved and cared for its child, a cuckoo. Eventually, the cuckoo outgrew the sparrow and killed it. In essence, The Fool refers to Goneril as untrustworthy. If I were the King, the Fools story would have certainly encouraged me to be cautious of my daughters. In my opinion, I feel as though the Fool has instigated a sense of internal conflict for the King.
Melissa, I agree that the Fool’s purpose of the play is to portray King Lear’s ignorance. By comparing the two characters, one discovers the Fool’s dominant intelligence. Although the Fool’s ironic title indicates his comical qualities, his insightful predictions prove his wisdom. In contrast, Lear does not possess such insight into the future. In Act I, Lear does not realize the imminent consequences of dividing his land between Goneril and Regan.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I disagree with your statement, “the Fool calls Lear a fool without him [Lear] taking any notice to it.” I believe Lear comprehends the Fool’s mockery and forewarning, but chooses to ignore him. Lear does not want to admit the fault of his actions. By Act III, Lear is no longer ignorant. He learns from his mistakes. This is evident when Lear states, “I am a man more sinned against than sinning” (Shakespeare 131). For the first time, Lear acknowledges his wrongdoing.
As seen by the character of King Lear, I believe people learn from their personal experiences and mistakes, rather than others' advice.