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König Lear — King Lear in German, illustrated graded reader

German bilingual graded story

König Lear

King Lear in German

4 levels: A0–B1 Natural German audio40–51 minGerman + English bilingual support

Read and listen to this story as a German–English bilingual graded reader, adapted for language learners from Starter to Intermediate level.

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Levels available

A0 · Starter· 40 minA1 · Beginner· 46 minA2 · Elementary· 46 minB1 · Intermediate· 51 min

About this story

King Lear decides to surrender his throne and divide his kingdom among his three daughters. Before giving them their inheritance, he asks each daughter to describe how much she loves him. Goneril and Regan flatter their father with extravagant speeches, but Cordelia refuses to exaggerate her feelings. Furious, Lear disowns the only daughter who truly loves him and rewards her dishonest sisters. Once they receive his power, Goneril and Regan turn against him and strip away his remaining authority. Driven into a violent storm, the aging king begins to understand his terrible mistake. But can Lear repair the damage before betrayal and war destroy his entire family?

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Scene 1 of King Lear, illustratedKönig Lear · Scene 1

Lear ist der König von Britannien. Lear hat drei Töchter. Die älteste Tochter heißt Goneril. Goneril ist die Frau von dem Herzog von Albany. Die zweite Tochter heißt Regan. Regan ist die Frau von dem Herzog von Cornwall. Die jüngste Tochter heißt Cordelia. Cordelia ist noch nicht verheiratet. Der König von Frankreich und der Herzog von Burgund wollen Cordelia heiraten. Darum sind sie an Lears Hof. Lear ist alt. Er ist schon über achtzig Jahre alt. Die Arbeit als König ist schwer für ihn. Deshalb will Lear nicht mehr selbst regieren. Jüngere Menschen sollen die Arbeit machen. Lear will Zeit haben und an seinen Tod denken. Darum ruft er seine drei Töchter zu sich. Lear will von ihnen hören, welche Tochter ihn am meisten liebt. Dann will er sein Reich teilen.

131 words

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Frequently asked questions

Is this story suitable for complete beginners?

The Starter version uses short sentences, common vocabulary and simplified narration.

Which level should I choose?

Choose the easiest version that you can follow comfortably. You can switch levels without losing your place.

Can I listen while reading?

Yes. Each scene includes German narration and playback-speed controls.

Is the English translation optional?

Yes. You can display it beside the German text or hide it for a more immersive experience.