Right or wrong, black or white, good or bad. Some aspects of the human psyche require the existence of specific and rigid classifications. There is a desire to categorize every aspect, object and experience ever encountered: once categorized, it is difficult to adapt. Likewise, philosophers have long worked on questions concerning human nature: are we a race entirely separate from beasts, or is our nature nothing more than bestial? Throughout Shakespeare's tragedy King Lear, highlighted specifically in one of Lear's speeches, the integrity of human nature is called into question. Although in his delusional state he claims that people are no better than beasts, cloaked under the facade of dignity, he is not yet aware of the existence of two characters who exhibit qualities that far surpass this assumption. Defying the animal instinct of self-preservation, opting instead to use reason guided by compassion, both Cordelia and Kent represent a contrast to Lear's bleak view of human nature. Furthermore, since they both act under pressure and therefore by pure instinct, their decisions adhere to the theory that human nature is not necessarily bestial (i.e. vile and selfish) but rather noble and loyal. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Naive and somewhat superficial, King Lear declares that he will divide his fortune and kingdom among his three daughters based on their ability to express their love for him. As her sisters utter their grandiose proclamations of love, Cordelia's parts reveal her growing anxiety at this test of filial piety (KL.II62, 76-78). Although evidently under pressure, Cordelia chooses not to openly flaunt her love for her father and "not give that answer"; instead she says “nothing,” “unhappy that [she]…cannot put [her] heart into [her] mouth” and knowing all the while that “nothing will come from nothing” (Sewell 143, KL.II89, 90, 91-92). By denying the opportunity to claim a share of the wealth, it ignores the basic animal instinct to ensure its own survival and instead embraces honor and honesty. In his madness, Lear banishes his youngest and most beloved daughter, deeming her "not very tender" and "alien to [his] heart and to [him]" (KL.II107, 116). Despite this brutal renunciation, Cordelia returns to help her father after his fickle older sisters strip him of his physical and mental worth. Wishing to bring "restoration" and "repair those violent harms" with a kiss, Cordelia embodies the varied essence of "conduct (and character) wherein reason is transformed by compassion" when she actively seeks out and nourishes Lear in his time of need. (KL.IV.VII. 27, 29, Sewell 144). Essentially, Cordelia recognizes that her actions will not bring her any physical benefit (which would drive an animal's motivation to act), but rather makes her decisions based on compassion and a keen awareness of honesty. Seeing that Lear judges Cordelia unfairly, Kent goes beyond his bounds of fairness in bringing this mistake to light. As a means of survival, court attendants recognize a certain level of respect owed to the ruler to maintain their position and life. Knowingly speaking beyond his scope of propriety endangers Kent's life and honored position, but his "honesty has in it a forthrightness more than the mere requirement if it be the occasion" (Sewell 142). His close familiarity with Lear requires Kent to be "ugly when Lear is mad" and "when majesty falls into madness" (KL.II 147-148, 150). Kent immediately responds to Lear's accusation and condemnation of Cordelia because.