King Lear :: essays research papers

King Lear Theme Of BlindnessWilliam ShakespeargonIn Shakespearean terms, cecity means a whole different thing. Blindness can unremarkably be defined as the inability of the eye to see, but harmonize to Shakespeare, cecity is not only a physical quality, but to a fault a mental flaw some people possess. One of Shakespeares dominant themes in his play King Lear is that of blindness. King Lear, Gloucester, and Albany are three prime examples, of how Shakespeare incorporates the theme of blindness into the story. Each of these characters blindness is the primary cause of the bad decisions he makes decisions which all of them get out eventually come to regret.King Lear is a character who is most change by blindness. Due to Lears high position in society, he is supposed to be able to distinguish the good from the bad unfortunately, his inadequacy of insight prevents him from doing so. Lears first act of blindness comes at the root system of the play. First, he is easily deceived by his two eldest daughters exaggerated declarations statingSir, I fill out you more than words can wield the matter Dearer than eye-sight, space, and casualnessBeyond what can be valued, rich or rare No less than life, with grace, health, beauty, honourAs much as child always loved, or father found A love that makes breath poor, and reference unableBeyond all manner of so much I love you. (I.I.56-63)Lear is unable to see the reality of Cordelias true love for him when she says Unhappy that I am, I cannot heave My heart into my mouth I love your majesty According to my bond nor more nor less. (I.I.96-98) As a result, Lear banished Cordelia from his kingdom with the following words ..................................for we Have no such daughter, nor shall constantly see That face of her again. Therefore be gone Without our grace, our love, our benison. (I.I.290-293) Lears blindness also causes him to banish one of his loyal followers, Kent. Kent is able to see Cordelias true love fo r her father, and tried to protect her from her blind fathers irrationality. After Kent is banished, he created a disguise for himself and is eventually hired by Lear as a servant. Lears inability to determine his servants true identity proved once again how blind Lear truly is. As the play progressed, Lears eyesight reached closer to 20/20 vision. He realized how immoral his two eldest daughters really were later on they locked him out of the castle during a tremendous storm.