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King Lear, Act 1, Scene 2 summary

Act 1, Scene 2 of 26 · 7 min to read the scene

In Act 1, Scene 2, Edmund uses a letter presented as Edgar's to convince Gloucester that his legitimate son plots against him, then persuades Edgar to avoid their father. Seeking land denied him by birth, Edmund exploits both men's trust and gains control over what each hears about the other.

What happens

  1. Edmund rejects the disadvantages of illegitimate birth and announces a scheme to gain Edgar's land.
  2. Edmund lets Gloucester discover a letter that appears to propose removing their father and dividing his income.
  3. Gloucester condemns Edgar, while Edmund offers to arrange a conversation that Gloucester can secretly hear.
  4. Gloucester blames recent eclipses for family conflict and political disorder, but Edmund privately rejects such explanations.
  5. Edmund warns Edgar that Gloucester is dangerously angry, gives him a key, and advises him to carry a weapon.
  6. After Edgar leaves, Edmund celebrates how easily his father's trust and his brother's honesty serve his scheme.

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In this scene

EdmundEdgarGloucesterTheme: Trust and deception

What to notice

Edmund states the purpose behind his deception. He treats manipulation as a way to overcome the disadvantage attached to his birth.

Quick check

What does Edmund advise Edgar to do if he goes out?

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