Samuel Johnson discusses the death of Cordelia in his commentary on King Lear as part of his "Preface to Shakespeare" (1765). In his critique of King Lear, Johnson specifically expresses dissatisfaction with the tragic death of Cordelia, arguing that it violates the audience’s natural sense of justice and hope for a fair resolution.
The correct answer is 2 ("It is contrary to the neoplatonic idea of decorum") because Samuel Johnson, in his famous critique of King Lear, does not explicitly refer to the neoplatonic idea of decorum as a reason for his objection to Cordelia's death.
Here’s how each option breaks down:
Contrary to the natural ideas of justice: Johnson does object to Cordelia's death because it goes against the natural expectation of justice. He felt that good characters, like Cordelia, should not be subjected to such a tragic and unjust end. According to Johnson, it offends the audience’s sense of moral order.
Contrary to the neoplatonic idea of decorum: Samuel Johnson did not cite this as a reason in his critique. Neoplatonism, with its focus on metaphysical ideals and a hierarchy of beings, is not explicitly referenced by Johnson in his moral and justice-based objections.
Contrary to the hope of the reader: Johnson also mentions that Cordelia’s death disappoints the reader's expectations. In a traditional narrative, the reader hopes for a resolution in which justice prevails and good characters, like Cordelia, survive. Her death frustrates this hope.
Contrary to the faith of chronicles: Johnson makes a point that Shakespeare could have followed historical accounts (chronicles) where Cordelia lived. Thus, her death is contrary to the version of events found in these sources.
To summarize: Johnson's main objections to Cordelia's death focus on the violation of natural justice, the disappointment of the reader’s hope, and the departure from historical chronicles. He does not refer to neoplatonic decorum, which is why answer 2 is correct.
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