Frateretto calls me, and tells me Nero is an angler in the lake of darkness. Pray, innocent, and beware the foul fiend

Frateretto calls me, and tells me Nero is an angler in the lake of darkness. Pray, innocent, and beware the foul fiend

The line "Frateretto calls me, and tells me Nero is an angler in the lake of darkness. Pray, innocent, and beware the foul fiend" is from William Shakespeare's play "King Lear." This quote is spoken by Edgar, who is disguised as Poor Tom, a mad beggar, throughout most of the play. In this particular scene, Edgar is warning his father Gloucester about the dangers of trusting others and the presence of evil in the world.

The character Frateretto is a demon or evil spirit that Edgar claims is calling out to him. Nero, in this context, is likely a reference to the Roman Emperor Nero, who was infamous for his cruelty and tyranny. By describing Nero as an angler in the lake of darkness, Edgar is suggesting that he is a sinister figure who lures others into dangerous or evil situations.

The phrase "Pray, innocent, and beware the foul fiend" is a warning to Gloucester to remain pure and innocent in the face of temptation and to be cautious of the devil or evil forces that may be at work. Edgar is urging his father to be vigilant and not to be deceived by appearances or false promises.

This quote is significant in the play as it reflects the themes of deception, betrayal, and the struggle between good and evil. Edgar's transformation into Poor Tom and his interactions with his father Gloucester serve as a parallel to the main plot of the play, which revolves around the betrayal and madness of King Lear.

Overall, this quote highlights the dark and treacherous world that the characters inhabit and serves as a reminder of the dangers of trusting blindly and the importance of remaining true to oneself in the face of adversity. Shakespeare's use of language and imagery in this quote effectively conveys the sense of foreboding and danger that permeates the play.