The instability Kent feared when Lear banished Cordelia has set in upon the kingdom. As ever, Kent’s primary objective is to protect Lear’s physical and mental well-being. He must get him out of the storm, which is quickly speeding up Lear’s decline. The storm is getting worse. They are only twenty minutes from the courtyard and have already become separated. While Lear is trapped in reflection on the past, Kent must be looking ahead to the future and turns back in search of the first Knight. Now that both daughters have abandoned him, he turns to Cordelia, as she may be the last source of refuge for Lear. Kent is relying on his knowledge of their relationship and trusting that despite everything that has happened, she still cares deeply for Lear and will want to do whatever she can to help him. Kent’s loyalty and devotion shine in this scene and throughout the storm. His shrewdness is also apparent, as even in the face of the dire present, he is still thinking ahead and planning for what is to come. The first knight is somewhat perplexed by Caius hints as to his identity and the instruction to contact Cordelia, but he, like Kent, is devoted to serving Lear, and will gladly travel to Dover in the elements to uphold his duty.
3.2
The intense cold, the jarring wind, and the plaguing thunder take their toll on Lear, Kent, and the Fool.
