King Lear Act 1 Scene 1
The setting of this scene is in Manhattan, New York City. More specifically, it takes place in the office building of a prominent real estate company. Thomas Rael's meeting room corresponds to King Lear's round table, and it is here where Rael announces that he is dividing up the shares of his company. The season is winter, to represent the conflict that arrises between Rael and his children, and it is set in modern day. This allows for the integration of modern technology such as phones and cars, to take the place of the messengers that were in the original play. Along with being set in modern day, the setting is innovative because it does not require the viewer to have any knowledge of the time period, because they are already familiar with
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it. Due to this, my version is much easier to understand and relate to than the original play. I chose this setting because it is easier to understand than the original setting, and because it is interesting to incorporate modern technology, and the modern aspects of a wealthy "empire," into a century-old play. By incorporating modern technology, a whole new aspect of the play is being added, therefore allowing for more enjoyment from the audience.
II Characterization
The main characters in this rewrite are Thomas Rael, Chris, Mary, and Joseph, who correspond to Lear, Cordelia, Regan, and Goneril respectively.
Thomas Rael is a wealthy business owner, who's "empire," much like Lear, has caused him to be out of touch with modern times, and the true intentions of his children. Thomas, also referred to as Mr. Rael, built his business from the ground up, and is therefore very proud of his work, leading to conflict when his business is run into the ground by Mary and Joseph. Chris, Thomas' once-favorite son, is the most intelligent and qualified of the three children, and the most loyal to his father. Thomas cannot easily put his ideas into words, therefore leading to a struggle when his father asks him to explain why he is the most qualified to inherit the majority of the business. Mary and Joseph are the greedy children of the three, who manipulate their father for personal gain, and are only interested in the money. They are devious, and do not care much for their father, or his business. Other characters include Geoffrey Williamson, Gary Tyler, Eddie Tyler, and Elliot Tyler, who correspond to Kent, Gloucester, Edgar, and Elliot respectively. Geoffrey, Thomas's secretary, is always looking out for his boss' best interest, even if it costs him his job. Geoffrey deeply cares for Thomas, and constantly sends him emails providing advise even when he is fired. Gary Tyler, much like Thomas, is a fellow business owner and friend who has family …show more content…
problems of his own. Gary is easily manipulated, and has trouble understanding the difficulty that his son Elliot experienced while growing up. Gary's son Eddie is a worker in his father's company who is set to become the CEO, and who is eventually back stabbed by his brother Elliot. Eddie always remains true to his father, has no intention of harming him or his business. Elliot is a trouble-maker, who looks to put his interests first. As well, he believes that his mental disorder (ADHD), is the reason why he is not set to become CEO of his father's company, and why he was treated differently as a child. The spouses of each of the main characters do not arise much overall, and therefore serve generic roles.
III Concept Idea
The story starts out with Thomas Rael, the wealthy business owner, explaining to his three children that he will divide up his shares of his real estate company depending on which child can convince him that they are the most worthy. The first two children, Mary and Joseph, follow this order, however, Chris states that all his dad must do is check résumé. The central conflict then arises, when Thomas prohibits Chris from receiving any shares, and realizes that his other two children are running his company into the ground. Meanwhile, Gary Tyler experiences problems with his children, when his son Elliot frames his brother for fraud. This leaves Eddie on the run, and Elliot trying to manipulate his father and others, in an effort to gain more power and money. Elliot eventually gains control of his father's business, and is completely clueless about how to run it. Gary and Thomas both end up in trouble when their children's actions cause them to go bankrupt. The story resolves with Thomas bankrupt, Gary bankrupt and depressed, Mary and Joseph disowned and stripped of their shares, Elliot in jail on fraud charges, and Chris left to rebuild his father's business, with the help of Geoffrey, after the destruction caused by Mary and Joseph.
IV Validity
This alternate version of King Lear is valid because it stays true to the original plot, while only changing the setting, character names, time period, and adding a slight variation to the ending. Overall, the same story and themes are preserved, although the story is told with a modern interpretation. As well, the plot is much more relatable than the original, and makes the story easier to understand and appreciate by children of all ages, therefore making it much more accessible.
V Rewrite
Geoffrey Williamson: Who's this gentleman, Gary?
Gary Tyler: That's my son, Elliot. It's hard to admit seeing as he is nothing like me.
Geoffrey Williamson: And why is that, Gary?
Gary Tyler: Well would you look at him Geoffrey? The boy can't sit still. I think he's going to have trouble in the world of business.
Geoffrey Williamson: Hey, he doesn't seem so bad. I'll bet he'll do just fine. He does have your genetics after all.
Gary Tyler: That may be true. My other boy Eddie is a great worker if Elliot has trouble. However, I still love them equally. Elliot, have you been introduced to Geoffrey yet?
Elliot Tyler: No father, I am afraid I have not.
Gary Tyler: Ok, well just know that this man is a very important business partner to us, and a friend.
Intercom call: "Mr. Rael would like you all to meet in his office for an important meeting."
All enter office and Thomas Rael walks in
Thomas Rael: Alright guys, I called you all here so I could announce that I plan to divide my shares of Rael Real Estate.
I am getting of age, and I find it in the company's best interest to pass the business on to my children. Children, I'd like you all to briefly convince me as to why you deserve influence in this company that I have worked so hard to build. Joseph, because you're the oldest, I'd like you to go first.
Joseph Rael: Father, I am easily the most deserving person here. From a very young age, I have always shown an interest in real estate, and I have helped you make a lot of money. It's funny that you would even ask this question, we all know that I am the most deserving one here.
Thomas Rael: Ok, very good Joseph. I'd like to give you 30% of my shares in our company. Mary, the second oldest, it's your turn.
Mary Rael: I thank you for this opportunity father, and I would like to say that I am very deserving of your hard earned shares in this company. Since I was a child, I have been by your side making deals, and helping you around the office. Also, we all know that I went to the best college here. A business degree from Yale is a very qualifying document.
Thomas Rael: Also very good Mary. You have been there for me for a while. I will give you 30% of my shares. Chris, you're next. Let's hear it.
Chris Rael: I don't really have anything to say
father.
Thomas Rael: Really? Nothing?
Chris Rael: Really, nothing.
Thomas Rael: Son, if you can't explain why you deserve these shares, you won't get any. Come on, try again.
Chris Rael: Sorry father, I really am not good at making speeches on the spot. If you want to know why I am qualified you can look at my record and résumé. All I can say is that I really care about this business and would do my best to continue your legacy.
Thomas Rael: Well then, that's too bad for you. I am not giving my company to someone who cannot explain why they deserve it. Saying that you care is not enough. You think this is some type of joke? Now get out of here, I hope you end up on the streets with no money.
Chris exits the room, noticeably upset, shaking his head in discontent.
Geoffrey Williamson: Oh come on Thomas, give the boy a break.
Thomas Rael: No, Geoffrey! I thought he was the most qualified of them all. I was hoping to give him the rest of my shares, so he could expand this business and continue to bring success to our family! I cannot give my company, though, to someone who has no idea why they deserve it! Mary and Joseph, you guys can split Chris' shares. Here they are, take them, nothing for Chris.
Thomas furiously hands paperwork to Mary and Joseph, and proceeds to march out of the room into his personal office, along with Geoffrey, who follows him.
Geoffrey Williamson: Thomas, I always thought you were smart. I think you should really reconsider this decision. You're making a mistake.
Thomas Rael: Shut up Geoffrey! I'm about ready to fire you as well. I'm furious right now.
Geoffrey Williamson: Kick me out then, if you can't take criticism then I should be on my way.
Thomas Rael: Geoffrey, seriously, stop talking.
Geoffrey Williamson: I won't stop talking. It's my duty to help you sir. Even if it means that I will get kicked out, I won't stop speaking up.
Thomas Rael: I'm done with you! You're fired, get out!
Geoffrey: You're making a big mistake, Tom.
Thomas Rael: You are a big mistake, now get the hell out!
Geoffrey Williamson: As you wish. Fire the only person who wants to help you. It will come back to hurt you Thomas, I promise you that.
Geoffrey calmly exits.
it. Due to this, my version is much easier to understand and relate to than the original play. I chose this setting because it is easier to understand than the original setting, and because it is interesting to incorporate modern technology, and the modern aspects of a wealthy "empire," into a century-old play. By incorporating modern technology, a whole new aspect of the play is being added, therefore allowing for more enjoyment from the audience.
II Characterization
The main characters in this rewrite are Thomas Rael, Chris, Mary, and Joseph, who correspond to Lear, Cordelia, Regan, and Goneril respectively.
Thomas Rael is a wealthy business owner, who's "empire," much like Lear, has caused him to be out of touch with modern times, and the true intentions of his children. Thomas, also referred to as Mr. Rael, built his business from the ground up, and is therefore very proud of his work, leading to conflict when his business is run into the ground by Mary and Joseph. Chris, Thomas' once-favorite son, is the most intelligent and qualified of the three children, and the most loyal to his father. Thomas cannot easily put his ideas into words, therefore leading to a struggle when his father asks him to explain why he is the most qualified to inherit the majority of the business. Mary and Joseph are the greedy children of the three, who manipulate their father for personal gain, and are only interested in the money. They are devious, and do not care much for their father, or his business. Other characters include Geoffrey Williamson, Gary Tyler, Eddie Tyler, and Elliot Tyler, who correspond to Kent, Gloucester, Edgar, and Elliot respectively. Geoffrey, Thomas's secretary, is always looking out for his boss' best interest, even if it costs him his job. Geoffrey deeply cares for Thomas, and constantly sends him emails providing advise even when he is fired. Gary Tyler, much like Thomas, is a fellow business owner and friend who has family …show more content…
problems of his own. Gary is easily manipulated, and has trouble understanding the difficulty that his son Elliot experienced while growing up. Gary's son Eddie is a worker in his father's company who is set to become the CEO, and who is eventually back stabbed by his brother Elliot. Eddie always remains true to his father, has no intention of harming him or his business. Elliot is a trouble-maker, who looks to put his interests first. As well, he believes that his mental disorder (ADHD), is the reason why he is not set to become CEO of his father's company, and why he was treated differently as a child. The spouses of each of the main characters do not arise much overall, and therefore serve generic roles.
III Concept Idea
The story starts out with Thomas Rael, the wealthy business owner, explaining to his three children that he will divide up his shares of his real estate company depending on which child can convince him that they are the most worthy. The first two children, Mary and Joseph, follow this order, however, Chris states that all his dad must do is check résumé. The central conflict then arises, when Thomas prohibits Chris from receiving any shares, and realizes that his other two children are running his company into the ground. Meanwhile, Gary Tyler experiences problems with his children, when his son Elliot frames his brother for fraud. This leaves Eddie on the run, and Elliot trying to manipulate his father and others, in an effort to gain more power and money. Elliot eventually gains control of his father's business, and is completely clueless about how to run it. Gary and Thomas both end up in trouble when their children's actions cause them to go bankrupt. The story resolves with Thomas bankrupt, Gary bankrupt and depressed, Mary and Joseph disowned and stripped of their shares, Elliot in jail on fraud charges, and Chris left to rebuild his father's business, with the help of Geoffrey, after the destruction caused by Mary and Joseph.
IV Validity
This alternate version of King Lear is valid because it stays true to the original plot, while only changing the setting, character names, time period, and adding a slight variation to the ending. Overall, the same story and themes are preserved, although the story is told with a modern interpretation. As well, the plot is much more relatable than the original, and makes the story easier to understand and appreciate by children of all ages, therefore making it much more accessible.
V Rewrite
Geoffrey Williamson: Who's this gentleman, Gary?
Gary Tyler: That's my son, Elliot. It's hard to admit seeing as he is nothing like me.
Geoffrey Williamson: And why is that, Gary?
Gary Tyler: Well would you look at him Geoffrey? The boy can't sit still. I think he's going to have trouble in the world of business.
Geoffrey Williamson: Hey, he doesn't seem so bad. I'll bet he'll do just fine. He does have your genetics after all.
Gary Tyler: That may be true. My other boy Eddie is a great worker if Elliot has trouble. However, I still love them equally. Elliot, have you been introduced to Geoffrey yet?
Elliot Tyler: No father, I am afraid I have not.
Gary Tyler: Ok, well just know that this man is a very important business partner to us, and a friend.
Intercom call: "Mr. Rael would like you all to meet in his office for an important meeting."
All enter office and Thomas Rael walks in
Thomas Rael: Alright guys, I called you all here so I could announce that I plan to divide my shares of Rael Real Estate.
I am getting of age, and I find it in the company's best interest to pass the business on to my children. Children, I'd like you all to briefly convince me as to why you deserve influence in this company that I have worked so hard to build. Joseph, because you're the oldest, I'd like you to go first.
Joseph Rael: Father, I am easily the most deserving person here. From a very young age, I have always shown an interest in real estate, and I have helped you make a lot of money. It's funny that you would even ask this question, we all know that I am the most deserving one here.
Thomas Rael: Ok, very good Joseph. I'd like to give you 30% of my shares in our company. Mary, the second oldest, it's your turn.
Mary Rael: I thank you for this opportunity father, and I would like to say that I am very deserving of your hard earned shares in this company. Since I was a child, I have been by your side making deals, and helping you around the office. Also, we all know that I went to the best college here. A business degree from Yale is a very qualifying document.
Thomas Rael: Also very good Mary. You have been there for me for a while. I will give you 30% of my shares. Chris, you're next. Let's hear it.
Chris Rael: I don't really have anything to say
father.
Thomas Rael: Really? Nothing?
Chris Rael: Really, nothing.
Thomas Rael: Son, if you can't explain why you deserve these shares, you won't get any. Come on, try again.
Chris Rael: Sorry father, I really am not good at making speeches on the spot. If you want to know why I am qualified you can look at my record and résumé. All I can say is that I really care about this business and would do my best to continue your legacy.
Thomas Rael: Well then, that's too bad for you. I am not giving my company to someone who cannot explain why they deserve it. Saying that you care is not enough. You think this is some type of joke? Now get out of here, I hope you end up on the streets with no money.
Chris exits the room, noticeably upset, shaking his head in discontent.
Geoffrey Williamson: Oh come on Thomas, give the boy a break.
Thomas Rael: No, Geoffrey! I thought he was the most qualified of them all. I was hoping to give him the rest of my shares, so he could expand this business and continue to bring success to our family! I cannot give my company, though, to someone who has no idea why they deserve it! Mary and Joseph, you guys can split Chris' shares. Here they are, take them, nothing for Chris.
Thomas furiously hands paperwork to Mary and Joseph, and proceeds to march out of the room into his personal office, along with Geoffrey, who follows him.
Geoffrey Williamson: Thomas, I always thought you were smart. I think you should really reconsider this decision. You're making a mistake.
Thomas Rael: Shut up Geoffrey! I'm about ready to fire you as well. I'm furious right now.
Geoffrey Williamson: Kick me out then, if you can't take criticism then I should be on my way.
Thomas Rael: Geoffrey, seriously, stop talking.
Geoffrey Williamson: I won't stop talking. It's my duty to help you sir. Even if it means that I will get kicked out, I won't stop speaking up.
Thomas Rael: I'm done with you! You're fired, get out!
Geoffrey: You're making a big mistake, Tom.
Thomas Rael: You are a big mistake, now get the hell out!
Geoffrey Williamson: As you wish. Fire the only person who wants to help you. It will come back to hurt you Thomas, I promise you that.
Geoffrey calmly exits.