Make false hair, and thatch your poor thin roofs with burthens of the dead

Make false hair, and thatch your poor thin roofs with burthens of the dead

In William Shakespeare's play, "King Lear," the character of Edgar speaks the line, "Make false hair, and thatch your poor thin roofs with burthens of the dead." This line is a powerful metaphor that reflects the themes of deception, betrayal, and the consequences of one's actions.

The image of making false hair to cover up one's true self is a metaphor for deception and falsehood. In the play, many characters engage in deceitful behavior, such as Goneril and Regan's betrayal of their father, King Lear, and Edmund's manipulation of his father, the Earl of Gloucester. By using false hair to cover up their true intentions, these characters are able to deceive others and further their own agendas.

The idea of thatching poor thin roofs with burdens of the dead is a haunting image that speaks to the consequences of one's actions. In the play, characters like Goneril and Regan are ultimately destroyed by their own treachery, while characters like Edgar and Cordelia, who remain true to themselves and their values, are able to survive and even thrive in the face of adversity. By metaphorically burdening their roofs with the dead, these characters are forced to confront the consequences of their actions and the weight of their sins.

Overall, this line from "King Lear" serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of deception and betrayal. It warns against the consequences of living a false life and the importance of remaining true to oneself and one's values. In the world of Shakespeare, where deceit and treachery are often rewarded, it is those who remain honest and true who ultimately triumph.