King Lear Vs. Job: what about Fate?

Throughout life we gain an idea of fate. Whether it be god, god’s or the universe, we have an instinct telling us that something bigger than ourselves is controlling our lives. Shakespeare takes some relating and contrasting idea from the biblical book of Job and writes “King Lear” to create his own idea of how our lives are guided. He questions how we can oppose fate, and if we even can. Through comparing King Lear and Job, it is seen that the two men have contrasting views on who or what controls fate, how it can be changed and their journey of opposing fate.

To grasp how fate is to be changed, we must first understand each man’s point of view. King Lear believed in a higher power of god’s and an overarching force of fate. We see this as he is pleads with god’s over his future:  “You heavens, give me that patience, patience I need! You see me here, you gods, a poor old man As full of grief as age, wretched in both. If it be you that stirs these daughters’ hearts.” (King Lear, Act II, Sc. IV) 

He has an idea that the only way to change fate is to request to not be served what is deserved. He understands there is no excuse for what he is receiving for his actions, but still asks that the gods of fate will show mercy to him. Opposing this view, it is seen that Job is a man that has no sense of self-righteousness and receives punishment that is not deserved with no plead to be excused.

Although Job is seen as blameless in God’s eyes, God allows Satan to plague Job with sickness, heartbreak and loss of everything, to which Job responds; “The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” (Job 1:21, ESV). This shows how gracious and trusting of the Lord Job is. Job believes that God is in control of all things, and will grant Job with what is needed to live and learn. 

Both men agree on the result of trying to oppose fate. After a period of time separated, angry and trying to rebuke God, Job realizes that the will of God (his version of fate) cannot be changed. “I know that you can do all things,and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” (Job 42:2, ESV). He gives all authority back to God and allows the Lord to once again have power of his life. Lear agrees that no matter what we do, the end result will always have been fated. Edmund in Shakespeare shows how the circle of life is the controller of fate. 

“Th' hast spoken right, 'tis true. The wheel is come full circle, I am here.” (King Lear, Act 5, Scene 3). They both have an understanding that no matter what they may do, there is no avoidance.  Shakespeare uses the book of Job to guide his writings, and to create his own ideology. Humanity responds to fate as we have no other choice. We come to understand that we cannot change it, not matter our point of view.

Did you like this example?

1017

42