Character Sketch of Cordelia in King Lear
Cordelia is a complex and multifaceted character in Shakespeare’s play King Lear. On the surface, she appears to be a model of virtue and goodness, standing up to her father and refusing to engage in the false flattery that her older sisters use to gain his favour. Cordelia’s character, on the other hand, is marked by vulnerability and fragility. Despite her strength and resolve, she is ultimately unable to withstand the harsh treatment she receives at the hands of her father and sisters, and she suffers greatly as a result.
Cordelia’s honesty and forthrightness are two of her most notable characteristics. She refuses to engage in the kind of empty flattery that her sisters use to gain Lear’s favour from the start of the play. Cordelia refuses to play along when Lear asks his daughters to declare their love for him and compete for his inheritance. Instead, she tells her father that she loves him “according to my bond; no more nor less” (King Lear, 1.1.91). In other words, Cordelia loves her father as a daughter should, but she refuses to engage in the exaggerated or false praise that her sisters do.
Cordelia’s honesty and forthrightness were ultimately responsible for her expulsion from the kingdom. Lear is enraged by her refusal to flatter him and casts her out, declaring that she will receive no inheritance. This harsh treatment emphasises Cordelia’s vulnerability and fragility, as she is unable to withstand the abuse of her father and sisters and is eventually forced to flee.
Despite her suffering, Cordelia remains a model of virtue and goodness throughout the play. She is kind and compassionate, always looking out for the well-being of others. She is also strong and steadfast, never losing her sense of purpose or commitment to doing what is right.
Cordelia’s goodness and character are ultimately vindicated, as she is able to reunite with her father and help him see the error of his ways. Cordelia’s character reminds us all to always be true to ourselves and our values, no matter what the world throws at us.