Examples Of Blindness In King Lear

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“There are two ways to be fooled. One is to believe what isn’t true; the other is to refuse to see what is true.” Soren Kieregaard. People become blind to things they do not want to believe or see. Perception and perspective determine ones outcome in life. Within King Lear perspective and the lack of it is a main theme. Shakespeare does not highlight blindness as a physical disability, but more of a mental flaw. Characters within King Lear are blind to others actions. Blindness is presented in the play King Lear through the use of the characters King Lear, Albany and Gloucester. Shakespeare shows the reader a new perspective into whom the characters truly are behind their lies. King Lear is fooled numerous times. Since Lear is the highest…show more content…
He consciously knew what Goneril was doing was wrong but turned a blind eye to her actions. His love for Goneril darkened his morality. Albany had disapproved of Gonerils actions but still continued to support her. When Goneril told Lear that in result of staying him staying in her castle he had to reduce his army. Albany than spoke " I cannot be so partial, Goneril, To the great love I bear You -" (I.IV. 309-310). Albany was blinded to her greed and wickedness she possessed. Albany even watched as Goneril evicted her own father from her castle. Goneril spoke so highly too her father bragging about her love for him, and then in return treats him with dishonor. Albany was so clouded by the love that he could not come conscious to Goneril cheating on him, and plotting to kill him. Albany’s judgement was extremely clouded and flawed. Fortunately for Albany’s sake Edgar discovered a letter displaying Gonerils malignant plans. Albany vision was cleared and he could finally see Gonerils true being. With all these new found emotions Albany proclaimed "O Goneril, You are not worth the dust which the rude wind Blows in your face!" ( IV,II,29-31) Albany was deceived by his love and did not want to see evil in something he loved so deeply. It was not until he was forced to confront the truth he could clearly see who Goneril really

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