King Lear Chapter Summary & Analysis - Act 4, Scene 2 Summary

Act 4, Scene 2 Summary

Goneril and Edmund approach the Duke of Albany's palace. Oswald meets them and delivers the news that Albany seems to have changed. He only smiled at the news that the army of France has landed, and he was disdainful toward Goneril when he learned she was on her way. When Albany learned of Gloucester's "treachery" from Oswald, he called Oswald a fool.

Goneril tells Edmund to go back to Gloucester's castle to avoid meeting the Duke of Albany. On the trip, Goneril and Edmund have had an affair, but Goneril must now return to the role of wife, at least for the moment. She disparages her husband in comparison to Edmund.

After Edmund leaves, the Duke of Albany comes out. He tells Goneril, "You are not worth the dust which the rude wind / Blows in your face" (lines 30-31). Albany sermonizes to her about her wickedness and rebukes her...
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