Importance of loyalty in King Lear

Assess the importance of loyalty in King Lear Shakespeare manipulates loyalty in the play, as the complete and utter devotion of some characters, for example Gloucester and Kent, emphasise just how terrible it is that Gonerill, Regan and Edmund turned so harshly against those close to them. The theme of loyalty exhibited is also paralleled to the fact that throughout the play, Shakespeare shows nature’s cruelty, particularly in regards to the storm; loyalty and morality does not ensure a ticket to remaining alive for the entirety of the play, just how in life, being a good person does not prolong your life. Loyalty often goes unrewarded in ‘King Lear’ as Shakespeare attempts to convey the message that loyalty in itself is its own reward. Cordelia’s loyalty to her father, in spite of his banishment of her, results in here being killed at the hands of Edmund, which proves that nature is cruel and will not stop at the expense of a good person. Shakespeare proves that, whilst loyalty may not be physically rewarded, they will be regarded as better people because of it and therefore makes their deaths nobler. This is the case with Gloucester, too, who dies a noble death because he remained faithful to Lear throughout. He suffered at the hands of Gonerill and Regan for his loyalty to Lear, going to guide him through the storm. Even when he is tied to a chair, he states “nor thy fierce sister/ In his anointed flesh stick boarish fangs”, showing that he is not going to tolerate their cruelty. The adjective ‘anointed’ shows how, even when the whole world is against Lear, he will continue to idolise him. However, Kent prospers, which proves that loyalty can be rewarded as Kent remains faithful to Lear throughout the entirety of the play. Shakespeare sends mixed messages about the theme of loyalty which ultimately represents that nature cannot be stopped by morality or immorality, but rather a person can die nobly and with good morals if they remain loyal throughout their