| 1 |
Kent is a man of action |
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A |
On the bare stage the actors have to use language to convey to the audience the physical reality of the storm so that our imaginative grasp of the situation is constantly prompted. |
| 2 |
Kent reinforces for the audience a sense of the actuality of this scene |
B |
Unable to find Lear in the storm, Kent apparently went back to Gloucester’s castle to look for him there but was denied entry. Now he intends to return to forcibly compel Goneril, Regan and Cornwall to behave with greater hospitality and courtesy towards the King. |
| 3 |
Kent is the voice of reason and common sense in the scene. |
C |
Rather than wallow in the violence of the storm as Lear does, Kent recognises its danger. He is aghast to find Lear “bare-headed” and realises the importance of getting him rest and shelter in a nearby hovel until he has persuaded Goneril, Regan and Cornwall to take Lear back in to the castle. |
| 4 |
Kent is vehement and blunt. He will use his hot temper to defend what he sees as right. |
D |
Kent is determined to serve Lear despite the order for his banishment with its threat of death if he is found out. His loyalty is a yardstick by which all other characters are measured.
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| 5 |
Kent, both as a key nobleman and in disguise as the dependable servant Caius, acts out the role of loyal follower and reliable guide.
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E |
He intervened without hesitation in the division of the kingdom, is prepared to perform all the tasks necessary to be Lear’s servant and takes the initiative in this scene.
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