King Lear disliked its dark and depressing tone, but since the 19th century Shakespeare's original version has been regarded as one of his supreme achievements. The tragedy is particularly noted for its probing observations on the nature of human suffering and kinship. George Bernard Shaw wrote, "No man will ever write a better tragedy than Lear." King Lear of Britain, elderly and wanting to retire from the duties of the monarchy, decides to divide his realm among his three daughters, and declares he will offer the largest share to the one who loves him most. The eldest, Goneril, speaks first, declaring her
King Lear to be that old and to be banished from your family into the open air in a storm. That's a level of impoverishment you would never want to see in any other human being, ever." In 2016 Talawa Theatre Company and Royal Exchange Manchester co-produced a production of "King Lear" with Don Warrington in the title role. The production, featuring a largely black cast, was described in "The Guardian" as being "as close to definitive as can be". "The Daily Telegraph" said "Don Warrington's King Lear is a heartbreaking tour de force". "King Lear" was also staged by Royal Shakespeare