Comment on the dramatic significance of the opening scene in King Lear Or Discuss the significance of the opening scene in 'King Lear William Shakespeare wrote King Lear around The opening scene is one of the most powerful in the play It sets the plot introduces major characters and reveals the central conflict The whole tragedy begins with this single scene of pride and misunderstanding Let us now move to the main discussion Division of the Kingdom The scene opens with Lear s decision to divide his kingdom His wish is to enjoy peace in old age He plans a love test for his daughters Lear says Nothing will come of nothing Speak again This moment begins the tragedy Cordelia s honest silence turns Lear s love into anger Revelation of Character The scene clearly shows the nature of the main characters Goneril and Regan use false praise to gain