“The theme of blindness- both physical and emotional- is dramatically presented in the play King Lear” – Illuminate.

Answer

“The theme of blindness- both physical and emotional- is dramatically presented in the play King Lear” – Illuminate. 

“King Lear” (1608) is the iconic and most famous tragedy of William Shakespeare (1564-1616). In this tragedy, the theme of blindness, including physical and emotional forms, is a central motif that drives the narrative and reveals the characters’ fates. Through the characters of Lear, Gloucester, and others, Shakespeare explores the consequences of literal and metaphorical blindness. It mentions profound insights into human nature and the complexities of power, family dynamics, and loyalty.

Lear’s Descent into Madness: One of the most striking manifestations of blindness in the play is King Lear’s descent into madness. It is emblematic of his inability to perceive reality accurately. Originally, Lear is figuratively blind to the true nature of his daughters, Goneril and Regan, as he foolishly equates their extravagant declarations of love with genuine affection. He wilfully chooses to remain blind to Cordelia’s genuine love and honesty.  Cordelia tells her father: 

“I love your majesty. According to my fond, not more nor less,” 

Lear disowns her due to her refusal to flatter him excessively.  This emotional blindness sets the following tragic events in motion, leading to Lear’s eventual realization of his folly and descent into madness.

Lear’s Literal blindness: Lear’s literal blindness in the storm scene is a powerful metaphor for his newfound wisdom and self-awareness. Deprived of his royal status and exposed to the harsh elements, Lear gains clarity of vision as he acknowledges his vulnerability and mortality. His recognition of his past mistakes and his newfound empathy for the suffering of others signify a profound emotional transformation brought about by his physical blindness.

Lear’s Emotional Blindness: Lear has been emotionally blinded by Cordelia’s refusal to confess her love for him. When Lear’s faithful servant Kent tries to tell him to ‘See better’, he needs to open his eyes to the mistake he is about to make, but stupidly, Lear also banishes his most trusty companion. Lear later regrets this as his