Summary: The Absence Of Mother In King Lear

In Shakespeare’s novel King Lear there is a deliberate absence of maternal figures. Consequently, in Coppélia Kahn’s publication “The Absence of Mother in King Lear” she explores the deep impact the lack of mothers had on the many motherless characters. Edgar, one of the few characters alive at the end of the play is a prime example. Although Edgar is smart and savvy, ultimately he makes many dubious decisions, therefore, the impact of growing up without a mother is clear throughout the play.

In Kahn’s publication she refers to Lawrence Stone’s studies concerning the “the custom of farming children out to wet nurses from birth until they were twelve to eighteen months old,” at which time they were taken from the only mother they had ever known

A separation for as short as one week during the first two years of a child’s life can cause long term psychological damage, yet, in King Lear, Edgar was likely deprived of maternal

Edgar’s unconditional trust of his brother is clear when he wonders, “How long have you been a sectary astronomical? (1.2.471),” and Edmund changes the subject yet Edgar doesn’t pursue an answer, even though his brother seems to be known for not believing in astrology. Edmund intentionally distracts his brother with a pointless question, because Edmund knows Edgar will think nothing of his suspicious actions, “Come, come; when saw you my father last? (1.2.472).” Considering their father just left, Edmund is clearly stalling and planning something. The trust displayed here highlights Edgar’s thirst for approval from his family. Additionally, Edgar displays patterns of children who look for relationships similar to the one’s they are familiar with, which in this case means someone perceived as family who commits the ultimate betrayal. The first time his wet nurse who he viewed as a mother left him and now his half-brother stabs him in the back. As a direct result of growing up without his mother, Edgar was not provided with enough maternal comfort and approval and therefore, he seeks it from his “bastard” brother who in most situations would be shunned by a legitimate child, even if their father informally recognized Edmund as his son. In this case, Edmund is welcomed to the family because Edgar seeks approval from someone other than his father,