Stream on Amazon Prime Episode 11
ACT FOUR
4.3
Lear’s condition has degenerated severely since Kent sent his message to Cordelia prior to the storm. Now in the storm, circumstances are even more dire and Kent is eager to hear a report of Cordelia. The First Knight does not just reiterate what has happened, but was so stirred by Cordelia’s reaction that he becomes entranced in the memory and relives the moment. Despite the devastating exchange when they last parted, Cordelia is deeply moved by the news of her father’s failing health. Both Kent and the Knight find relief and even hope in the fact that despite the betrayal, a loving bond still endures.
4.4
When Cordelia receives the letter describing Lear’s madness, we witness her internal struggle. She has become a Queen and is now preparing for battle against her own people. She is strong in the first scene, but now has gained a different, deeper kind of strength. She has gained maturity and gravitas through responsibility, yet we are also privy to her vulnerability as she is faced with news of her father's poor health.
