Monologue

Edgar Monologue from King Lear

From King Lear by William Shakespeare

male · anguished · 1:22 min

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This would have seem’d a period To such as love not sorrow; but another, To amplify too much, would make much more, And top extremity. Whilst I was big in clamour, came there a man Who, having seen me in my worst estate, Shunn’d my abhorr’d society; but then finding Who ’twas that so endur’d, with his strong arms He fastened on my neck, and bellow’d out As he’d burst heaven; threw him on my father; Told the most piteous tale of Lear and him That ever ear receiv’d, which in recounting His grief grew puissant, and the strings of life Began to crack. Twice then the trumpets sounded, And there I left him tranc’d. (ALBANY: But who was this?) Kent, sir, the banish’d Kent; who in disguise Follow’d his enemy king and did him service Improper for a slave. Enter a Gentleman hastily, with a bloody knife. (GENTLEMAN: Help, help! O, help!) What kind of help?

About this piece

Edgar reflects on his past suffering and the betrayal he faced, recounting a moment of connection amidst despair as he recalls a man who embraced him despite his misfortunes.

20s · sadness · sorrow · identity · family · redemption

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