Shakespeare Today: King Lear - Theme of Justice

The video explores the theme of justice in Shakespeare's King Lear, highlighting the complexity and ambiguity of justice in the play. It discusses the influence of fate, human actions, and societal norms on justice, using examples from the play. The video examines characters like Lear, Edmund, and Gloucester, illustrating their perspectives and experiences with justice and injustice. The conclusion questions whether justice is truly served, leaving the audience to ponder the fairness of the universe.

What two ideologies are contrasted in the introduction to the theme of justice in King Lear?

• Judaism and Buddhism

• Islam and Christianity

• Buddhism and Humanism

• Christianity and Humanism

In King Lear, what do the stars symbolize in relation to justice?

• A bigger order of justice

• Human emotions

• The power of nature

• Randomness

Why does King Lear banish Cordelia and Kent?

• They were caught lying

• They stole from the kingdom

• They refused to flatter him

• They plotted against him

What does Edmund believe about society's treatment of him?

• He is treated unjustly

• He is treated fairly

• He is favored

• He is ignored

What is the irony in Lear's mock trial of Goneril and Regan?

• It is conducted by mad men

• It is a real trial

• It results in justice

• It is held in a courtroom

What realization does Gloucester have after losing his eyes?

• His power

• His wisdom

• His gullibility

• His strength

How does Edgar view the gods in contrast to Gloucester?

• As cruel

• As indifferent

• As just

• As non-existent

What does Edmund suggest about the nature of justice?

• It is predetermined

• It is random luck

• It is controlled by humans

• It is always fair

What is Albany's belief about justice at the end of the play?

• The bad always win

• Justice is unattainable

• Only the good are rewarded

• Everyone gets what they deserve

What question does King Lear's conclusion raise about the universe?

• Is it indifferent to human actions?

• Is it predictable?

• Is it controlled by humans?

• Is it ultimately just and fair?