Female Violence and Punishment in Shakespeare's King Lear

Abstract

In Shakespeare's King Lear, violence is a recurrent theme, and the play explores the consequences of violent actions, particularly when they are committed by female characters. This article will examine the ways in which women in the play engage in violent acts and the punishments they face as a result. The article will focus on the characters of Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia and the ways in which their violent actions and punishments impact the overall themes of the play. The article will also consider the historical and cultural context of the play, including attitudes towards women and violence in Elizabethan England. This article aims to shed light on the ways in which Shakespeare uses female violence as a tool for exploring larger societal and political issues and to provide a nuanced understanding of the punishments faced by women who engage in violent behavior.