)‫ مكرر‬19( CD‫عمرو محمد الجميل سليمان – إنتظام – رقم الـ‬

1. Plot, Themes and Characters of King Lear.

• King Lear is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare. The plot revolves around an aging king who decides
to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on how much they profess to love him. However, the
king's decision leads to tragic consequences and he ultimately loses everything he held dear. The play
explores themes of power, family, betrayal, justice, and madness.
Characters
• King Lear: The protagonist of the play who is the king of Britain and decides to divide his kingdom among
his three daughters.
• Goneril and Regan: King Lear's two eldest daughters who flatter their father and receive the majority of
the kingdom.
• Cordelia: King Lear's youngest and favorite daughter who refuses to flatter her father and is disowned by
him as a result.
• The Earl of Gloucester: A nobleman who is loyal to King Lear but is deceived by his illegitimate son
Edmund.
• Edmund: The illegitimate son of the Earl of Gloucester who plots against his half-brother Edgar and
manipulates his father.
• Edgar: The legitimate son of the Earl of Gloucester who is falsely accused by his brother Edmund and
goes into hiding.
• The Fool: King Lear's jester who provides comic relief and often speaks the truth to the king.
Themes
• Power: The play explores the corrupting influence of power and the destructive consequences that result
from the pursuit of power.
• Family: King Lear's relationship with his daughters highlights the complexity of familial relationships and
the importance of love and loyalty.
• Betrayal: The play portrays the devastating effects of betrayal, whether it be through deceit or treachery.
• Justice: The characters in the play often seek justice, but the consequences of their actions show that
justice is not always served.
• Madness: The play examines the concept of madness, both real and feigned, and how it affects the
characters and their actions.

2. Plot, themes, characters and metaphors in A Curse of the Starving Class by

Sam Shepard. Motif of rebirth and comment on biography of Sam Shepard.
• A Curse of the Starving Class is a play by Sam Shepard, first performed in 1976. The play follows the Tate
family, who live on a run-down farm in California and are struggling to hold their lives together. The play
explores themes of family dysfunction, the American Dream, and the destructive effects of capitalism.
Characters
• Weston Tate: The patriarch of the Tate family who is an alcoholic and absentee father.
• Ella Tate: Weston's wife who is desperate to sell the family farm and start a new life.
• Wesley Tate: The teenage son who dreams of escaping his family and starting a new life.
• Emma Tate: The teenage daughter who is rebelling against her family and their way of life.
• Taylor: A shady businessman who is interested in buying the family farm.
• Malcolm: A drifter who becomes involved with the Tate family.
Plot
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• The play opens with Weston returning home drunk and announcing that he has sold the family farm
without consulting anyone else. The rest of the play follows the family's attempts to deal with this news,
as well as their individual struggles with their own desires and needs. The play ends with the family's
farmhouse burned down and the characters uncertain about what the future holds.
Themes
• Family Dysfunction: The play explores the dysfunctional relationships within the Tate family and the
impact it has on their lives.
• The American Dream: The play examines the idea of the American Dream and how it is often
unattainable for working-class families like the Tates.
• Capitalism: The play critiques the destructive effects of capitalism, including the way it can lead to the
exploitation of working-class families.
• Rebirth: The motif of rebirth runs throughout the play, with characters constantly seeking a new
beginning or a fresh start.
Metaphors:
• One of the key metaphors in the play is the idea of the family farm as a symbol of both freedom and
captivity. For the Tates, the farm represents their family history and their dream of a better life, but it
also keeps them tied to their past and prevents them from moving forward.
Biography of Sam Shepard:
• Sam Shepard was an American playwright, actor, and screenwriter. He was born in 1943 in Illinois and
began writing plays in the 1960s. He is known for his gritty, realistic plays that often explore themes of
American identity, family dysfunction, and the struggle for power. Shepard won numerous awards
throughout his career, including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for his play Buried Child. He passed away in
2017 at the age of 73.

3. Summarize "According to my bond; king Lear and recognition"

• "According to my bond; King Lear and recognition" is an essay written by Janet Adelman that explores the
theme of recognition in Shakespeare's play "King Lear." Adelman argues that the play's various characters,
including Lear himself, are all struggling to be recognized by others in different ways. She notes that the
concept of recognition is closely tied to the play's themes of power, language, and identity.
• Adelman analyzes Lear's journey throughout the play, noting how his sense of identity and power are tied to
his ability to be recognized as a king. When he divides his kingdom and is subsequently rejected by his
daughters, Lear's sense of identity and power crumbles. Adelman argues that Lear's ultimate recognition of
Cordelia is a pivotal moment in the play, as it leads to his eventual reconciliation with her and the possibility
of redemption.
• Adelman also examines the relationship between Gloucester and his sons, Edgar and Edmund, noting how
their struggles for recognition and power ultimately lead to tragedy. She argues that the play's exploration
of recognition ultimately highlights the complex nature of human relationships and the importance of mutual
understanding and empathy.
4. Illustrate the basic principles of the move grammar theory as applied in
Edmund's plotting against his father and his brother.
• The move grammar theory is a linguistic framework that can be applied to the analysis of literature and
narrative structure. In the context of Edmund's plotting against his father and brother in Shakespeare's "King
Lear," the move grammar theory can help to illuminate the ways in which Edmund's actions and motivations
are shaped by the structure of the play.
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• According to move grammar theory, a narrative can be broken down into a series of "moves," or discrete
units of action or information. Each move serves a specific function within the narrative and is often marked
by a shift in focus, perspective, or tone.

In the case of Edmund's plotting, several key moves can be identified:

• The initial move: In the opening scene of the play, Edmund delivers a soliloquy in which he expresses his
resentment towards his status as a bastard child and his desire for power and recognition. This move sets
the stage for his subsequent actions and establishes his motivations.
• The deception move: After learning of his father's plans to disinherit him in favor of his legitimate son Edgar,
Edmund forges a letter that implicates Edgar in a plot against their father. This move serves to sow the seeds
of discord and mistrust between Gloucester and Edgar, and sets the stage for Edmund's ascent to power.
• The betrayal move: In a later scene, Edmund betrays his father by turning him over to the Duke of Cornwall
and Regan, who torture and blind him. This move solidifies Edmund's position of power and demonstrates
his willingness to go to extreme lengths to achieve his goals.
• The downfall move: Ultimately, Edmund's scheming leads to his own downfall. In the play's final act, he is
exposed as a traitor and is mortally wounded in a duel with Edgar. This move serves as a tragic reminder of
the consequences of ambition and greed.
• By analyzing Edmund's actions and motivations through the lens of move grammar theory, we can gain a
deeper understanding of the complex narrative structure of "King Lear" and the ways in which Shakespeare
uses language and character development to convey themes of power, betrayal, and redemption.

5. Discuss within the framework of the move grammar theory and describe the
relationship between Edmund and both Regan and Goneril.
• Within the framework of move grammar theory, the relationship between Edmund and Regan/Goneril in
"King Lear" can be analyzed in terms of the moves that characterize their interactions and the motivations
that drive their actions.
• The initial move: The relationship between Edmund and Regan/Goneril is established early in the play, as
they are both vying for power and influence over their father, King Lear. Edmund sees an opportunity to
advance his own position by aligning himself with Regan and Goneril, who are both seeking to gain control
of the kingdom.
• The alliance move: Edmund and Regan/Goneril form an alliance based on their shared desire for power and
their mutual distrust of their father and his loyal followers. This move serves to establish Edmund as a key
player in the power struggle that is unfolding, as he begins to use his influence to manipulate events to his
advantage.
• The betrayal move: Despite their initial alliance, the relationship between Edmund and Regan/Goneril is
ultimately one of betrayal. Edmund uses his position of power to play Regan and Goneril against each other,
manipulating their desires for control and causing them to turn on each other. This move serves to reinforce
the play's themes of betrayal and corruption.
• The downfall move: Like many of the play's characters, Edmund's actions ultimately lead to his downfall. He
is ultimately exposed as a traitor and is mortally wounded in a duel with his own brother, Edgar. This move
serves to underscore the tragic consequences of ambition and greed, and serves as a cautionary tale about
the dangers of unchecked power.
• Overall, the relationship between Edmund and Regan/Goneril is characterized by a series of moves that
highlight the complex interplay of power, influence, and betrayal that drive the play's narrative. By analyzing
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their interactions through the lens of move grammar theory, we can gain a deeper understanding of the ways
in which Shakespeare uses language and character development to convey the play's themes and messages.
6. Comment on the page 301. Describe the dialogue between Edgar and Edmund
about the supposing killing Gloucester.
• In this scene, Edgar is disguised as Poor Tom and encounters Edmund, who has been involved in the torture
and blinding of their father, Gloucester. Edmund falsely claims that he killed Gloucester in self-defense, and
Edgar initially believes him. However, as the conversation unfolds, Edgar begins to suspect that Edmund is
lying and may have been involved in Gloucester's torture.
• The dialogue between Edgar and Edmund is tense and fraught with dramatic irony, as the audience knows
that Edmund is lying and that Gloucester is actually alive. This creates a sense of tension and suspense, as
the audience wonders whether or not Edgar will discover the truth about his brother's involvement in
Gloucester's suffering.
• The dialogue also highlights the complex relationship between Edmund and Edgar, who are both vying for
power and recognition within their family. Edmund is motivated by a desire for power and status, while Edgar
is driven by a sense of duty and loyalty to his father. This creates a sense of conflict and tension between the
two brothers, which is further heightened by the revelation of Edmund's involvement in Gloucester's torture.
• Overall, the dialogue between Edgar and Edmund in this scene serves to heighten the dramatic tension of the
play and to deepen our understanding of the complex relationships between the play's characters.

7. Describe the dialogue between king Lear and his two daughters at the end of
act 2.
• In the dialogue between King Lear and his two daughters, Goneril and Regan, at the end of Act 2 of "King
Lear," tensions between the characters reach a boiling point as Lear confronts his daughters' lack of respect
and loyalty towards him.
• Lear is outraged by Goneril's disrespectful treatment of him at her palace, and he confronts her about her
behavior. Goneril responds with insincere apologies, which only serve to enrage Lear further. Regan then
enters the scene and takes her sister's side, accusing Lear of being rash and impulsive in his actions.
• The dialogue quickly becomes heated, with Lear accusing his daughters of being ungrateful and heartless.
Goneril and Regan, in turn, accuse Lear of being foolish and irresponsible. The tension between the
characters is palpable, and their arguments escalate until Lear is left alone on the stage, raging against the
injustice of his situation.
• This scene is a turning point in the play, as it marks the moment when Lear begins to realize the extent of his
daughters' betrayal and his own vulnerability. The dialogue between Lear and his daughters is marked by a
sense of bitterness and anger, as well as a growing sense of despair and helplessness. Ultimately, it serves to
set the stage for the tragic events that will unfold in the remainder of the play.
8. What is the reaction of Gloucester of the bad treatment of king Lear?
• Gloucester is initially sympathetic to King Lear's situation and disapproves of the bad treatment that Lear
receives from his daughters, Goneril and Regan. He witnesses firsthand the disrespectful and ungrateful
behavior of Lear's daughters, and he expresses his concern to them, urging them to show more respect
towards their father.
• Gloucester is particularly moved by Lear's plight, as he himself has two sons whom he loves deeply. He feels
a sense of kinship with Lear and is horrified by the way he is being mistreated by his own children. Gloucester
also tries to intervene on Lear's behalf, pleading with his own son, Edmund, to help Lear in his time of need.
• However, as the play progresses, Gloucester's sympathy for Lear begins to wane. He becomes embroiled in
his own family drama, as his son Edmund manipulates him into disowning his legitimate son, Edgar. This
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creates a rift between Gloucester and Edgar, which ultimately leads to Gloucester's blinding at the hands of
Regan and Cornwall.
• Despite this, Gloucester's initial reaction to the bad treatment of King Lear underscores the broader theme
of family dysfunction and betrayal that runs throughout the play. It also serves to highlight the complex
relationships between the play's characters and the various alliances and rivalries that exist between them.
9. What is the status of Kent in act 3?
• In Act 3 of "King Lear," Kent is in disguise as Caius and has taken a job as a servant to King Lear in order to
stay close to him and protect him from his enemies. He has been banished from the kingdom by Lear's
daughter, Regan, but he refuses to leave Lear's side.
• Throughout Act 3, Kent serves as a loyal and trusted advisor to Lear, offering him counsel and support in his
time of need. He is instrumental in helping Lear to escape from the clutches of his daughters and navigate
the treacherous landscape of the kingdom.
• Despite his exile, Kent's status as a trusted advisor to Lear remains unchanged, and he continues to play an
important role in the unfolding events of the play. His loyalty and dedication to Lear serve as a powerful
reminder of the value of friendship and the importance of standing by those we love, even in the face of
adversity.
10. Describe King Lear's behavior during the wind.
• In Act 3, Scene 2 of "King Lear," King Lear exhibits erratic and erratic behavior during a storm that rages
outside. The storm is symbolic of the turmoil and chaos that exists within Lear's own mind, as he grapples
with the betrayal of his daughters and his own sense of vulnerability and powerlessness.
• Lear's behavior during the storm is marked by a sense of desperation and anguish, as he rages against the
elements and the unfairness of his situation. He curses his daughters and rails against the gods, accusing
them of cruelty and indifference to human suffering.
• At times, Lear's behavior borders on madness, as he rants and raves incoherently and seems to lose touch
with reality. However, there are also moments of clarity and insight, as Lear reflects on the nature of human
existence and the transience of power and wealth.
• Despite his erratic behavior, Lear's struggle during the storm is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the
human spirit and the ability of individuals to endure even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
11. Describe how Edmund plotting against Goneril, Regan, and Gloucester
according to the move grammar theory.
• According to the move grammar theory, Edmund's plotting against Goneril, Regan, and Gloucester can be
analyzed in terms of the various strategic moves he makes in order to achieve his goals.
• First, Edmund initiates a move of opposition by presenting himself as the victim of Gloucester's favoritism
towards his legitimate son, Edgar. This move allows him to establish himself as a sympathetic figure and gain
the support of Goneril and Regan, who are also in opposition to their father.
• Next, Edmund makes a move of recruitment by enlisting the support of Goneril and Regan in his plot to
overthrow their father and gain control of the kingdom. This move allows him to consolidate his power and
form alliances with other key players in the drama.
• Finally, Edmund makes a move of manipulation by using his newfound power to manipulate Goneril and
Regan into turning against each other. This move allows him to sow discord and confusion within their ranks,
ultimately weakening their ability to resist his takeover.
• Throughout his plotting, Edmund is guided by a strategic and calculated approach, making use of various
rhetorical devices and persuasive techniques in order to achieve his goals. His actions demonstrate the
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power of language and persuasion in shaping the course of events, as well as the importance of strategic
thinking and planning in achieving one's objectives.
12. Describe the encounter between Lear and Edgar on the heath.
• In Act 3, Scene 4 of "King Lear," Lear encounters Edgar on the heath during the storm. At this point, Edgar is
disguised as Poor Tom, a bedraggled and half-naked madman, and Lear mistakes him for a fellow sufferer.
• Lear is initially sympathetic towards Edgar, offering him his cloak and expressing his own despair at the state
of the world. However, as the conversation continues, Lear's own mental state begins to unravel, and he
becomes increasingly erratic and unpredictable.
• Throughout the encounter, Edgar serves as a sounding board for Lear's thoughts and emotions, offering him
comfort and support as he struggles to make sense of his situation. Despite his own suffering, Edgar remains
patient and compassionate towards Lear, recognizing the depths of his pain and offering him hope for the
future.
• The encounter between Lear and Edgar on the heath is a powerful moment in the play, showcasing the
strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is a testament to the power of human
connection and empathy in times of crisis, and a reminder of the importance of finding hope and meaning in
even the darkest of moments.
13. Summarize the structure of the final scene of Measure for Measure p. 209

The final scene of Measure for Measure is structured in three parts:

• First, the Duke reveals himself to be alive and returns to Vienna to set things right. He confronts Angelo, who
is about to be executed, and forces him to marry Mariana, whom he had abandoned years earlier. The Duke
also pardons Claudio, who had been sentenced to death for impregnating his fiancee outside of wedlock,
and allows him to marry her.
• Next, the Duke proposes to Isabella, who had previously rejected his advances. She accepts, and they agree
to marry after he has resolved the remaining issues in the city.
• Finally, the Duke announces a series of reforms aimed at restoring order and justice to Vienna. He appoints
Escalus, who had previously served as Angelo's deputy, as his successor, and instructs him to enforce the law
fairly and equitably. The Duke also promises to marry within the year and invites the citizens of Vienna to
celebrate their newfound freedom and happiness.
• The structure of the final scene is designed to provide resolution to the various plot threads that have been
introduced throughout the play. It brings closure to the conflicts between Angelo and Mariana, Claudio and
his fiancee, and the Duke and Isabella, while also offering a vision of hope and renewal for the future.