King Lear :: essays research papers

queen mole rat Lear proposition Of BlindnessWilliam ShakespeareIn Shakespearean terms, blindness means a full-page different thing. Blindness can norm in ally be defined as the inability of the eye to run through, but according to Shakespeare, blindness is not still a physical quality, but also a mental defacement some people possess. One of Shakespeares dominant approximations in his prank 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 compositors case of the bad decisions he makes decisions which all of them will eventually come to regret.King Lear is a character who is most affected by blindness. Due to Lears high position in society, he is supposed to be suitable to distinguish the good from the bad unfortunately, his lack of insight prevents him from doing so. Lears first act of blindness comes at the b eginning of the play. First, he is easily deceived by his two eldest daughters exaggerated declarations statingSir, I love you more than spoken communication can wield the matter Dearer than eye-sight, space, and libertyBeyond what can be valued, rich or rare No less than life, with grace, health, beauty, honourAs much as child eer loved, or father show A love that makes breath poor, and speech 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 fit in to my bond nor more nor less. (I.I.96-98) As a result, Lear banished Cordelia from his kingdom with the following speech ..................................for we Have no such daughter, nor shall ever see That face of her again. so be g peerless Without our grace, our love, our benison. (I.I.290-293) Lears blindness also causes him to banish one of his loyal followers, Ke nt. Kent is able to see Cordelias true love for her father, and assay 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 proven once again how blind Lear actually is. As the play progressed, Lears eyesight reached closer to 20/20 vision. He realized how debauched his two eldest daughters really were after they locked him out of the castle during a tremendous storm.