Shakespeare uses many motifs to expand on the themes of the story. His most-used motif revolves around filial responsibility. Each of the two plots contains characters who betray their fathers. Goneril and Regan flatter their father, King Lear, and then betray him. The drastic change that occurred in their attidtude towards their father is clearly evident through Goneril's speech before: 'Sir, I love you more than words can wield the matter; Dearer than eye-sight, space, …showed first 75 words of 567 total…

…showed last 75 words of 567 total…in many of his plays, that appearances can be deceiving. Many people put up false fronts in order to get what they want, including Regan's and Goneril's flattery. Once again, one must be careful not to fall victim to others' false actions. Shakespeare emphasizes the need to think about actions that may have serious consequences, and not to rush into anything. Irrational behavior and gullibility cause many of the problems and conflicts in King Lear.