Act I, Scene I of
King Lear, a play by
William Shakespeare first performed in 1606, as depicted by
Edwin Austin Abbey. Based on the legend of
Leir of Britain, it depicts
King Lear's gradual descent into madness after he disposes of his kingdom to two of his three daughters based on their flattery. This tragedy has frequently been adapted for the stage and motion pictures, with the title role coveted by many of the world's most accomplished actors.
In this scene, Cordelia, the youngest of Lear's three daughters, is banished for refusing to profess her love in return for one third of the kingdom. Instead, she proclaims that there is nothing to compare her love to, nor words to properly express it.Painting: Edwin Austin Abbey