KING LEAR (annotated)

King Lear is a tragedy play by William Shakespeare. It depicts the descent into madness of the title character after he disposes of his kingdom between two of his three daughters based on their flattery, bringing tragic consequences for all. Based on the legend of Leir of Britain, a mythological pre-Roman Celtic king, the play has been widely adapted for the stage and motion pictures, with the title role coveted by many of the world's most accomplished actors.