King Lear is a tragic play written by William Shakespeare that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and madness. The story follows King Lear, an aging monarch who decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their professions of love for him. This decision leads to devastating consequences as Lear's misjudgment of his daughters' true natures results in his downfall. As Lear descends into madness, he grapples with the harsh realities of his choices and the cruelty of those around him. The play is renowned for its profound insights into human nature and the complexities of familial relationships, making it a timeless classic in English literature.