In Act IV Scene 6, the scene of reconciliation is marked by Kent's conversation with the Gentleman, where Lear is ashamed of his own unkindness and refuses to see Cordelia. The scene is set to continue with Cordelia kneeling at her father's side and kissing his hand, a gesture of love and pity that sets the tone for the next scene. Cordelia's last long speech, her sole concern, is about Lear's sufferings in the storm, highlighting Goneril and Regan's cruelty. Cordelia's warmth and compassion contrast sharply with her sisters' cold vindictiveness.
When Lear wakes up, Cordelia's anxious questions indicate that she submits to her father's authority. She is upset when she realizes her father is still far away. She continues to seem choked for the rest of the scene, falling to her knees and begging for Lear's blessing. She is so overwrought that she can only offer a brief 'No cause, no cause' and ask gently if her father will take a walk with her.
In Act IV Scene 7, Cordelia seems to be the perfect, doting daughter, suggesting that Shakespeare has started to rehabilitate and reaffirm patriarchal hierarchy in the final scenes of the play. Her gentle pity and 'No cause, no cause' are seen as the natural response of a caring daughter.
In Act I Scene 1, Lear is bewildered by the events of the previous 24 hours and struggles to understand them. He learns the lesson that language cannot express emotions truly and is humbled by his experiences. Lear speaks about himself in a self-pitying tone, but also looks outwards, expressing doubts about his senses and recognizing Cordelia's cause for hating him. He uses first person pronouns,'methinks' and 'I', suggesting greater humility. He shuns anything suggesting regality and is more concerned with his child, Cordelia.
In Act V Scene 3, Lear acts out the role of protective father, offering to drink poison, which is moved by the audience's sympathy. Cordelia constantly tries to reassure her father, and when they leave the stage together, it seems that the reconciliation is complete. However, we doubt Lear's survival as he no longer speaks or acts like a mighty king. Cordelia's reverence is ultimately hopeless.
This scene is significant because it shows a fragile family harmony restored, and Lear no longer holds false values. He recognizes love and goodness accurately, and we welcome his increased wisdom and humility. Act IV Scene 7 also provides an outlet for the pity felt for the old king since the end of Act II.