Goneril And Regan Flashcards
(8 cards)
What is the role of Goneril and Regan in the play?
They represent betrayal, ambition, and moral decay — a contrast to Cordelia’s virtue.
Lear (about Goneril): “How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child!”
This quote captures the pain of betrayal. Lear compares Goneril’s ingratitude to a venomous bite, showing how unnatural and devastating her behaviour is. The sisters’ cruelty drives the tragedy and highlights key themes like justice, family breakdown, and corruption of power
How does Regan die?
She is poisoned by Goneril out of jealousy over Edmund.
Goneril: “If not, I’ll ne’er trust medicine.”
This chilling line shows Goneril’s satisfaction and intent. The reference to “medicine” is ironic and cold, turning a symbol of healing into one of murder. It shows the depth of Goneril’s jealousy and how their rivalry ends in destruction.
How do Goneril and Regan first deceive Lear?
By using flattery to win his favour and land.
Goneril: “Sir, I love you more than word can wield the matter.”
Goneril’s exaggerated praise is insincere. Their false declarations of love expose one of the play’s central concerns — appearance vs reality.
How do the sisters repay Lear after receiving power?
They strip him of his authority and dignity.
Regan: “What need one?”
Regan cruelly questions Lear’s need for even a single knight. This chilling line reveals their lack of empathy and disrespect for their father.
What motivates Goneril and Regan’s actions?
Lust for power and control.
Regan: “O, sir, you are old. Nature in you stands on the very verge of her confine.”
Regan uses Lear’s age to justify her cruelty. She implies he’s no longer fit to rule, showing how both sisters manipulate and dismiss him.
How does Edmund affect the sisters’ downfall?
Both fall in love with him and turn on each other.
Goneril: “I had rather lose the battle than that sister should loosen him and me.”
Goneril’s jealousy leads to betrayal and poison. Their rivalry over Edmund reveals their capacity for evil, even against family.
What happens to Goneril at the end of the play?
She poisons Regan and takes her own life.
(Reported: “Your lady, sir, your lady: and her sister by her is poisoned; she confesses it.”)
Goneril’s ambition and jealousy ultimately destroy her. Her death is a direct result of the moral rot within her character.
Words to describe
Shrewd
Vindictive
Hypocritical
Ruthless
Spiteful
Lustful
Remorseless
