In Shakespeare's classic tragedy, King Lear, the issue of

sight and its relevance to clear vision is a recurring theme.

Shakespeare's principal means of portraying this theme is through the

characters of Lear and Gloucester. Although Lear can physically see,

he is blind in the sense that he lacks insight, understanding, and

direction. In contrast, Gloucester becomes physically blind but gains

the type of vision that Lear lacks. It is evident from these two

characters that clear vision is not derived solely from physical

sight. Lear's failure to understand this is the principal cause of his

demise, while Gloucester learns to achieve clear vision, and

consequently avoids a fate similar to Lear's.

Throughout most of King Lear, Lear's vision is clouded by his

lack of insight. Since he cannot see into other people's characters,

he can never identify them for who they truly are. When Lear is

angered by Cordelia, Kent tries to reason with Lear, who is too

stubborn to remain open-minded. Lear responds to Kent's opposition

with, "Out of my sight!," to which Kent responds, "See better, Lear,

and let me still remain" (I.i.160). Here, Lear is saying he never

love with their false love. Lear, however, is fooled by Goneril and

never have seen vengeance taken upon Cornwall. When Cornwall puts out

Vision is the result of the mind, heart, and emotions put together,

head, nor no money in your purse? Your eyes are

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1356
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)