The Storm

The Storm on the heath is a symbol of the emotional chaos in Lear’s mind as well as of the political unrest that brews in England now that Lear has handed power over to his two manipulative daughters.

Gloucester's Eyes

Gloucester’s Eyes are a symbol of blindness in the play. Both Lear and Gloucester are blind to the their children’s true intentions, and both fathers accidentally favor the untrustworthy children over the moral ones. When Gloucester’s eyes are plucked out, the physical act symbolizes Gloucester’s emotional blindness.

Flowers and Weeds

Flowers and Weeds are a two-pronged symbol in the play. When Lear covers himself in flowers and weeds, it not only symbolizes his “oneness” with nature, but it also symbolizes how unkempt Lear has allowed his kingdom to become. Both Lear’s appearance and England have been neglected and are...