Cordelia Illustration

This image comes from Tales from Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb, which is an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s plays, aimed at introducing young readers to his works. This collection retells many of Shakespeare’s plays in accessible language while preserving the essence of their themes and characters. Each re-written play has one major image that goes along with it, many of which feature main or very important characters from the plays. This image lies as apart of the story of King Lear.

Arthur Rackham's 1909 illustration of Cordelia from King Lear captures the grace and integrity of Shakespeare's character through his distinct artistic style. In this image, Cordelia is portrayed as a young woman with long, flowing blonde hair, standing beside an ornately carved wooden chair. The image features intricate detailing and earthy, muted colors, evokes a sense of quiet dignity and emotional restraint that reflects Cordelia’s character.

Cordelia, King Lear's youngest daughter, is known for her honesty, compassion, and loyalty. Unlike her sisters, who deceive and betray their father, Cordelia speaks only the truth, even when it leads to her banishment. Her character is both morally resolute and tender, qualities that make her Lear's favorite, though tragically misunderstood. The story of Cordelia’s devotion unfolds tragically as she returns to help her father after he has descended into madness following her sisters’ treachery. In a symbolic reversal of roles, she becomes almost like a mother to Lear, attempting to comfort and restore him despite his earlier rejection of her. However, when Lear finally recognizes her, the reunion is short-lived, as Cordelia is condemned to die, representing the play's harsh exploration of loyalty, justice, and forgiveness. Rackham's art, through its somber colors and meticulous details, embodies this tragic sense of loss and Cordelia’s enduring loyalty.