AP English Literature Periods 1 and 2

Complete these short study questions from Act IV (Four) Act IV. Why does Gloucester want to commit suicide, and how do Edgar’s actions help change this and brighten Gloucester’s spirits? Why has Edgar changed his disguise? How does Edgar describe the beggar who led to him Dover (Edgar himself) to Gloucester? Why is this convincing to Gloucester? In Lear’s madness, he continues his growth as a character. Write out two quotes from Lear that reflect his OWN personal growth. Why does Lear rave against women? What is the thematic significance of the dialogue between blind Gloucester and mad Lear? How does Lear now view the concept of justice in the world of men? How would this have made him a better king? Explain Lear’s words beginning, “We came crying hither….” What news does the gentleman (messenger from Cordelia) give to Edgar? How does Oswald die? Why is it an appropriate death for him? What is the content of the letter Oswald was carrying to Edmund?