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follows the basic principle of nature as solely for reproduction by hinting that Cordelia is acting
unnatural as she rejects her same natural principle of reproduction. Barbara C. Miller in her
critical essay supports Lear’s observation of Cordelia’s unnatural behavior. Miller writes,
“Cordelia is driven by Lear's imperatives into an equally uncompromising confrontation with
herself, for she cannot answer Lear's question and define their relation without defining herself”
(“Virago with a Soft Voice”). As Miller mentioned, Cordelia is having a difficult time in
recognizing her connection with nature Lear relates her with. Lear wants to maintain the father-
daughter relationship of him following his patriarchal duty of gifting Cordelia large chunks of
land; however, Cordelia’s uncertainty in recognizing Lear’s efforts creates tension in their
relationship like Leonato and Hero’s relationship.

Instead of comparing Cordelia to the second image of nature like Leonato does with Hero,
Lear dissociates Cordelia from nature, which causes a temporary halt in their relationship. He
dramatically calls on every aspect of nature to disown Cordelia. He says,

For, by the sacred radiance of the sun,
The mysteries of Hecate and the night,
By all the operation of the orbs
From whom we do exist and cease to be,
Here I disclaim my paternal care,
Propinquity, and property of blood,
And as stranger to my heart and me
Hold thee from this forever (1.1.109-16).
Lear is swearing by nature that he is disowning his daughter, and he uses all these natural images
to connect what he believes Cordelia identifies as home. Through this connection, he removes