The character of Kent in King LearBy reading Eva Turner Clark's analysis of King Lear, in its hidden allusions in Shakespeare's plays, I been struck by the polarity of our interpretation of this supreme drama. Where Clark finds historical and political allusions, particularly for the years 1589-1590, I find personal allusions. Because King Lear is a play of interior and personal tragedy. With that in mind, I strongly disagree with his statement: "I consider Kent to represent Drake." (P. 869 n.) Therefore I sought another Oxford contemporary who would fulfill the characteristics and qualities of the Earl of Kent. In researching this prototype, I was inspired by the methodology of J. Thomas Looney. (See Shakespeare Identified, p. 80.) Put simply, my task was to examine the text of Lear, to derive from it an accurate conception of the character and qualities of the Earl of Kent, and then to search for a man who matched this description. . Once such a man was found, it was necessary to connect him to the character of Kent and the author. Eventually I discovered that my conception of Kent had been accurately described by ST Coleridge. Kent is perhaps the closest goodness to perfection of all of Shakespeare's characters, and yet the most individualized. There is an extraordinary charm in a frankness, which is only that of a nobleman, born of a contempt of excessive courtesy, and combined with an easy complacency where goodness of heart is apparent. His passionate affection and loyalty to Lear act on our feelings in favor of Lear himself: virtue itself seems to be in his company. (Collected Works of Samuel Coleridge, Vol. IV, edited by WGT Shedd, Harper and Bros., New York: 1884, pp. 138-39.) The first two requirements of Looney's plan had been fulfilled. I had read and examined the text of Lear and, with the help of Coleridge, had highlighted Kent's qualities. Now they had to find the man. It must be direct but charming; noble and courteous, but not authoritarian in his rank nor a slave to authority. He must be loyal to his country, his monarch and his friends. He must be someone worthy to lead men; even nations. (It must be remembered that Kent is part of the triumvirate who, as is implied at the end of the play, will rule the destinies of England.) He must be someone who has earned the greatest respect and the admiration of Oxford; the man chosen to be old King Lear's personal champion (and, indeed, Oxford's as well)?