King Lear William Shakespeare Depicting a once-great ruler's descent into madness, King Lear is one of the most powerful tragedies ever staged. About the play The Plot Past productions Merchandise King Lear on the Shakespeare Learning Zone More Less About the play The Plot Past productions King Lear has ruled for many years. As age overtakes him, he divides his kingdom amongst his children. Misjudging their loyalty, he soon finds himself stripped of all the trappings of state, wealth and power that had defined him. More about the play King Lear timeline Famous quotes Key moments and facts Dates and sources In This Section The Plot Watch our synopsis film or read the story of Shakespeare's King Lear Watch the video Learning Teaching ideas and lesson planning inspiration through our range of resources, activities and other supporting materials on Shakespeare's King Lear. Find out more Past productions Shakespeare's King Lear in performance at the RSC Read More Merchandise Buy now King Lear on the Shakespeare Learning Zone Studying King Lear? Visit the SHAKESPEARE LEARNING ZONE to discover loads of facts, videos and info about the play Find out more You might also like