The Duke of Albany is the husband of King Lear's eldest daughter, Goneril. At first, he seems like someone who’s henpecked, powerless to resist the wishes of his wife to kill her father. He is her complete opposition. The brutality and pragmatism of Albany's spouse compensate with his charity and benevolence. In comparison with her, he has moral qualities and philanthropy. It is his non-acceptance of evil that causes a strong confrontation with Goneril. He openly joins the defenders of the kingdom’s interests The Duke of Albany is one of those characters that demonstrates positive dynamics in the course of the play. He grows over his weaknesses, for which he ultimately receives control over the state.
Duke of Albany in the Essays