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King Lear: Book Guide, Author and Facts

King Lear by William Shakespeare — plot, author, genre and where to read, in one evergreen guide.

By the Pop Culture Files editorial team3 min read✓ Fact-checked
King Lear book cover
Cover via OpenLibrary · OpenLibrary

King Lear divides his kingdom among the two daughters who flatter him and banishes the third one who loves him. His eldest daughters both then reject him at their homes, so Lear goes mad and wanders through a storm. His banished daughter returns with an army, but they lose the battle and Lear, all his daughters and more, die.

Quick facts about King Lear

  • Title: King Lear
  • Author: William Shakespeare
  • First published: 1608
  • Genre: drama, king lear (legendary character), fathers and daughters
  • OpenLibrary ID: OL259026W

Where to read King Lear

King Lear by William Shakespeare is widely available in print, ebook and audiobook editions from major retailers and libraries.

Compiled from public OpenLibrary data. Availability and details can change over time.

Frequently asked questions

What is King Lear about?

King Lear divides his kingdom among the two daughters who flatter him and banishes the third one who loves him.

Who wrote King Lear?

King Lear was written by William Shakespeare.

When was King Lear published?

King Lear was first published in 1608.

Sources

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