Competition Between His Three Daughters example essay topic

281 words
Competition is everywhere in our society today. We see it in the media, athletic competitions, in schools, and at the places we work. Everyone is striving to be something better. It is said that competition enriches our society and as long as we continue to keep up our competitive spirit our communities will continue to thrive.

William Shakespeare saw competition and capitalism in society in a different light. He didn't see this as a wonderful opportunity to gain power and wealth; he saw this as somewhat of a tragedy in society. He explains his opinion through one of his many works. King Lear is a story of a King who decides he is going to have a competition between his three daughters.

He asks the three "Which of you shall we say doth love us most?" Like all competitions he intends to reward the best answer given. His two older daughters give him an answer that pleases him, but his youngest gives a simplistic answer that the King believes isn't worthy. He banishes his youngest daughter from the country and rewards the other two with half of the kingdom each. The rivalry heightens between the two older siblings and the constant quest for more eventually drives both to death. The youngest daughter however is hung and because of this action her father dies of a broken heart. The intensity of competition and quest for capitalism is enough to drive a society mad, but yet everyday it continues.

We will soon realize that the world cannot be dominated by power hungry humans; it will only end in tragedy.