King Lear

Lear’s decision to "rashly disinherit the only child who truly loves him" (Introduction to King Lear, Norton Edition)  sets in motion the tragic events that follow.

“Here I disclaim all my paternal care,

Propinquity and property of blood,

And as a stranger to my heart and me

Hold thee, from this, for ever. To gorge his appetite, shall to my bosom 

Be as well neighbour'd, pitied, and relieved,

As thou my sometime daughter.”