Michael VuMrs. Soukup – Block 1AP English Literature and CompositionApril 11, 20142005, Form B AP Literary Essay for King LearWilliam Shakespeare conceived Edmund as an ambitious character who seeks power over others in his tragedy King Lear. Tainted by his illegitimacy, Edmund must rise to power through his own abilities and intellect rather than through inheritance. However, his quest for power leads him to corruption as he commits betrayal against his father and brother. Shakespeare demonstrates society's problem with those who seek power as a means of revenge. Edmund believes in the idea of ​​natural law as a means to achieve power; in fact, the Nature to which Edmund appeals is human nature, where desire is the driving force of all action. Shakespeare creates a tragic tone through characterization and juxtaposition. He defines natural law and distinguishes it from social law, but Edmund confuses one with the other and falls from power, revealing his hamartia. Shakespeare establishes Edmund's motivations by emphasizing his bastardy. The two sons of Gloucester ...