Lear's Fool

I perceived Lear's Fool to act as a juxtaposition to many of the characters, Lear especially, throughout his time in the play. The Fool disappears after Act 3, right as the plot truly starts to develop between Lear and his daughters, and Gloucester and his sons. I believe the Fool disappears right about at this time because his purpose has been served. Shakespeare seems to employ the Fool in order to exemplify the King's state of mind as well as to enunciate the disparities between wisdom and title. Ironically, the King is a supposedly "wise" and respected individual, yet he rages without acknowledging logic. This notion continues with the Fool, who, despite being named a fool, acts extremely wise and intelligent. The juxtaposition of the King and the Fool illustrates the false importance of titles within the play as well as the misleading connotations of perceived wisdom.

While the Fool frequently employs songs and circular speeches when speaking with the king, his meanings and intentions can often be ambiguous. However, his inherent wisdom remains obvious, especially when compared with the King's deteriorating mind.