Edmund has daddy issues and an inferiority complex

How would you like it if your dad always introduced you by saying that he was slightly embarrassed of you, but that your mother was a good whore? That's pretty much the way Edmund feels. At the very first, Gloucester seems to be emphasizing the fact that Edmund is his illegitimate son who "must be acknowledged" because his mother was pretty and "there was good sport at his making." Seriously, how could you grow up like that and NOT want to implement some crazy scheme to get your dad to notice you? 

Edmund isn't the only younger brother
living in the shadow of his elder sibling.

So according to this article by Timothy Lin, there are four major causes that can aggravate an inferiority complex: physical defects, mental limitations, social disadvantages, and parental attitudes. These last two are both very applicable to Edmund's situation, especially the latter of the two. Constantly being compared to his older, legitimate brother, who will inherit his father's lands and power, he is forced to face and re-confront the reality that he will never be politically powerful or rich, despite the fact that his father is a powerful earl. Simply because of his illegitimate status, he is socially inferior to his elder brother. Indeed, that is what Edmund focuses on when he gives his initial speech detailing his plans.


Symptoms of inferiority complexes fall into one of two categories: withdrawal tactics and aggressive tactics.  Edmund does not exhibit many withdrawn tendencies, but does show many of the more violent tactics of criticizing others and seeking for attention. In the absence of truly being able to find fault and criticize his brother, Edmund is framing him, making up things to criticize him for. In successfully doing so, he will not only gain what he sees to be his rightful inheritance, but also the love and appreciation of his father.