Different Directors Perspectives in King Lear

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All texts can be read and understood, interpreted and represented in many different ways according to the views of the responder and their context. Many different interpretations of “King Lear” have been made, each valuing and highlighting different aspects and themes of the play. It is necessary for these interpretations to be made and adapted in order for “King Lear” to have relevance within the context of the society. Each interpretation of the text extracts and concentrates on certain ideas, issues, themes, values of the play, altering the way the play is received amongst audiences and critics. Shakespeare's tragedy King Lear can be interpreted in many ways and many responses. The imprecision’s and complication of the play has led to its many production. Interpreting the issues and ideas in King Lear is dependant upon each individual responder. Individuals may be influenced by their own personal experiences, moral and ethical standards and the situation of their time. The play explores and examines the underlying nature and basic faults of humanity like self-indulgence. Because of the plays conflict of issues, it can consistently be reshaped and analysed to suit current times. Because of this, different meanings are constantly produced. Absurdist Version. Peter Brook 1971 – with Paul Scofield as Lear Who thought Lear to be “A prime example of the absurd”? Comments on how twentieth century critics often try to put King Lear. Brooks’ Produced an absurdist interpretation which come to life a state of moral lack of involvement but still retained textual truth, this forced responders to make their own interpretations of the play. Brooks used traditional Shakespearean techniques in this early production to convey h... ... middle of paper ... ...nd minimalist elements of the production, with Stephen Dunne from the Sydney Morning Herald stating simply, “Minimal resources, maximum effect.” From studying different readings, interpretations and productions, it has helped me to develop my understanding of the play. Also, different productions of King Lear can alter meaning of the play. As a result, it is up to the individual responder to understand the play as he or she wishes. The ‘modern audience’ of the 1990s would view the play as a drama of the family. This major sector of the ‘modern audience’ can directly relate to issues of the family to the domestic drama that happens surrounding the play. The Elizabethan / Jacobean audience would view the play more as a political tragedy due to their context. Bibliography King Lear - William Shakespeare King Lear - Eyre Production King Lear - Harlos Production

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