You pay a great deal too dear for what's given freely

You pay a great deal too dear for what's given freely

In William Shakespeare's play "King Lear," the character Cordelia speaks the famous line, "You pay a great deal too dear for what's given freely." This line is spoken in Act 1, Scene 1, during the court scene where King Lear asks his daughters to profess their love for him in order to receive their share of his kingdom. Cordelia, the youngest daughter, refuses to flatter her father with false declarations of love like her sisters Goneril and Regan do. Instead, she speaks honestly and from the heart, saying that she loves him as a daughter should, no more and no less.

This line is significant because it highlights the theme of honesty and sincerity in relationships. Cordelia's refusal to flatter her father with empty words ultimately leads to her banishment from the kingdom. King Lear, in his anger and pride, cannot accept Cordelia's honesty and chooses to believe the false flattery of his other daughters. In the end, Lear pays a great deal too dear for what Cordelia freely offers him – her genuine love and loyalty.

The line can also be interpreted as a commentary on the value of true love and loyalty versus material wealth and power. King Lear is willing to give up his kingdom and divide it among his daughters based on their declarations of love for him. However, he fails to see the true worth of Cordelia's love, which is priceless and cannot be bought or sold. In the end, Lear realizes too late the mistake he has made in rejecting Cordelia and losing her love.

Overall, this line from "King Lear" serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty, sincerity, and true love in relationships. It warns against the dangers of valuing material wealth and power over genuine human connections. Cordelia's words ring true throughout the play, as the consequences of her honesty reverberate through the lives of all the characters involved. Shakespeare's timeless wisdom continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the true cost of sacrificing honesty and love for the sake of worldly gain.